Goals: Gab, Matt, Cowley 2

Great start to the new season with a convincing victory over local rivals Hearts, which puts us top of the table on goal difference.

With Stef calling out sick the night before, we started off with a makeshift back four with Scottie and Tony center back and Flabbo and Joe full backs. The midfield consisted of Adam and Nick D in the middle, with Nick L and Mattie on the wings. Gab supported Nick W, who was playing as the lone striker.
The initial play was a bit scrappy, as both sides were settling into the game. We then started to dominate play, with the midfield taking control. Although we dominated most of the play in the first 20 mins, we were unable to break down a stubborn Hearts defense, then with some nice interchange on the left, Nick W picked out Gab in the box, who coolly headed us into the lead. Spartans were able to relax more and we pushed for more goals. As the first half was drawing to a close, Spartans extended their lead. Gab played an exquisite ball for Matt. Matt outpaced the Heart defense and calmly placed the ball past the Hearts keeper. HT 2-0.

A couple of changes at half-time. Bobby comes on for Nick L. and plays left back, Joe moves into midfield. H comes on for Nick D in center mid. Spartans are soon back into their stride and causing the Hearts defense all sorts of problems. Even with a succession of corners we are unable to extend our lead. Cowley comes on for Mattie on the right side and immediately makes an impact. He latches on to a shot from Nick W and squeezes the ball home to make it 3-0. At this stage Spartans are running Hearts ragged and have no answer to the Spartans pace. Jake comes on for Adam in central midfield. Cowley then makes it 4-0, as he neatly controls a ball over the top and slips it past the on-coming keeper. At this stage we are queuing up for chance after chance. Paul Hoy comes on for Flabbo for the last 10 mins. No further score. FT: 4-0.

Excellent start to the season. A very convincing win. Everyone played their part. A solid defense, an expansive and creative midfield and a pacey attack. MOM: for a dominating display in midfield. Gab.

Next game is also against local Wanchai rivals BOCA. This is likely to be a tough game against a team that beat the French yesterday. Let’s keep up the momentum.