Game 6: United Mighty Lions 28/6/08
We new this was going to be the game that would test our metal. The top of the table clash the fans had been waiting for. A true test of our skill, determination, style and good looks. After last weeks close (but not) game, we were far more prepared for a tough match. The lads new what they had to do when they arrived at the stronghold, that is Beach Rd. After a good long week of rain which hindered our build up (very little practice) the ground was sticky and slightly messy around the goal mouths.
We warmed up well and got set to roll. Tane once again got the whistle duty and we started with our usual line-up. United kicked off and we were into it. We started strong and put pressure on straight away. Their coach commented to me after the game that they weren't used to this so our plan had worked. We scored first to take an early lead. The game was intense and everybody was feeling it. There was a great deal of expectation and excitement from the sideline from both sets of supporters. The boys held strong for the first 25 and we went into the break 1-0 up. There were some interesting times in the first half which needed to be addressed. The most obvious was letting them get in front of our goal unmarked. To their credit, the boys listened and fixed the problem in the second half.
We conceded a goal for the score to level 1 all. We shifted some players around and mixed things up a bit. TJ went into defence where he finished the game very strongly, intercepting some forward passes at crucial times. Riley continued his good form with some awesome corners and goal kicks which took a lot of pressure off our defensive end. Nick battled away as usual with some big tackles. Luke made some great passes setting up our second goal and began looking for those spaces. Tony continued with his hard running and made some critical tackles in the mid-field to slow things down. Ben has established himself as the number 1 goalie. His confidence has increased unmeasureably and it has given the team confidence and another very positive string to its bow. Jono gutsed it out as usual, running a half marathon in the space of the game. Matt did very well even making it on to the field considering he had been sick the previous day.
Another own goal from us off another corner (something to work on coach!) drew the score to 2-2. A late flurry from both sides could have seen another goal to either team but the result was probably a fair indication of the game. Two top sides giving it their all in an evenly contested match. Our boys left it all out on the field and can be extremely proud of themselves. The teams 3 cheered as a group and we got a great photo of them both.
Score 2-2 (Matthew 2)
