Goals: Matt, Aidan

Bright and early start at KGV, with a 9:30am kick off. A far more organized start to the match, with pretty much everyone there at 9am and consequently I was able to field a strong team. Sanju in goal, with Thomie D and Dave center backs and Scottie and Andy B full backs. The midfield included Aidan and Rob in center and Nick L and Matt on flanks. Rick man supported Jens up front.

We started the game very well…taking advantage of an average Hoo Cheung midfield and we soon looked dangerous. I spent the first part of the game clearing debris (from the midweek Typhoon) off the far side of the pitch, as Spartans played some very attractive football. We soon broke the deadlock, when the ball broke to Matt and he calmly side footed the ball from 20 yards out past the stranded keeper. We kept up the momentum with Jens causing all sorts of problems for the Hoo Cheung defense. We were soon 2-0 when Jens put Aidan clean through, he coolly poked the ball past the oncoming keeper. Hoo Cheung had no answer to the Spartans onslaught and a high score looked on the cards. However, we were unable to make our pressure tell and went into the break only 2-0 up.
At HT, Hoo Cheung brought on replacements, who were clearly far better than their starting line-up. Flabbo replaced Nick L with Andy H. Hoo Cheung were soon into their stride and the Spartans defense, who had a pretty quiet first half, were soon on the back foot and having to defend in numbers. As the half progressed, Hoo Cheung got a lifeline, as they pulled a goal back. This sparked them into life and it was clear we would have to battle hard to maintain our advantage. Unfortunately, this meant dirty tactics, as they decided to try and kick us off the park, with Jens receiving most of the treatment. Nick D replaced Matt and Flabbo came on for Aidan. Chances were few and far between, but we continued to create chances, but could not extend our lead. Then as the game came to a close, we were unable to clear our lines and the Hoo Cheung striker placed the ball smartly in by the near post. The referee blew for full time as we took the kick off, so the goal was the last play for the game. A disappointing end to a game that in all fairness we should have won comfortably. We played some good football in the first half, with Rob and Aidan controlling the game from midfield. The defense was immense and looked in control throughout the game. Jens and Rick Man ran their socks off and were unfortunate not to get on the score sheet. However, MOM for a great display controlling the midfield….Rob.

Next week’s game is at a more civilized time of 6PM @ King’s Park.