Our recent run of good form continued with a convincing, professional performance against the only other Gweilos in the A League. After a few last minute pullouts due to injuries to Cowley, Skurnik and Mansfield as well as a last minute signing of Paddy we took the long journey to Ma on Shan. We arrived with a half hour to go on a pristine grass pitch only to be informed that we were on the astro next door. Some of the lads suggested this would suit our sophisticated passing style… "cough"!
After our warm up we settled for the usual 4-5-1 (squad and starting line up below)
Squad: Jamil SUB, Terry LB, Leandro RB, Oliver CM, Flabbo CB, Adam RW, Chi SUB, Hoy SUB, DanH CB, Miles CM, Ed LM, JasonG CM, Jeff SUB, Sanju GK, Paddy F = 15
The first half was a tense affair but we looked the more composed team after a early goal from Paddy. Dan passed through to Paddy who finished emphatically to make it 1 – 0. Soon after
Adam shot over. A few minutes later a corner from Jay found Paddy who’s shot was blocked. Oli did a brilliant defensive job in midfield but on a rare moment going forward Oli shot wide on a rebound. Our back five was also excellent with Leandro, Flabbo and Tel putting their bodies on the line to block shots and win headers. Sanju also pulled off a few neat saves. We went in at half time the more dominant team and confident with a 1 – 0 lead. The gaffer called for more intensity in the second half. We wanted to break the opposition’s spirit by being first to the ball and not letting them play.
Second half
The second half is a blood and guts display which I was very proud off. We put in some controlled aggression and fought hard for each other. The best moment was when Jeff was felled to the floor and the opposition carried on playing, the injustice propelled 3 of our players to their winger who all slid in. Their winger looked absolutely terrified. Jay and Dan dished out some great comments to assert their authority.
The opposition was restricted to long shots and we totally dominated all the 50/50s and headers. All our subs did well when they came on which gave the gaffer lots of options. Sanju also pulled off another great save towards the end of the game. Near the end of the game Jeff lays off a wonderful ball to Jay who runs across the face of the goal waits for the keeper to commit and then slots in the decisive goal. It’s game over for Island Utd. Chi nearly made it 3 – 0 with a great determined run and trademark shot with the outside of the foot.
All in all a very satisfying win. Everyone played well but special mentions to Sanju, all the back four, Jay, Oli, Paddy and Jeff
Jay wins MOM hands down for a determined game and decisive goal
Sanj wins Mug of the Day for dropping his precious bottle Evian on the bus
STRENGTH & HONOUR
