Home to Western 2s

A good tie between two evenly match sides, played competitively and well-controlled by our umpires (thanks to Tom & Ed).

The side started breezily for the opening 5-10 minutes, taking the game quickly to our opponents, but not garnering enough in the D. That momentum soon shifted for the significant remainder of the first half, with Western applying pressure in the middle of the park and then attacking at pace. They took the lead twice, to enter the interval 2-1 up; Gordy Allan grabbing our goal after some good, simple build-up play from our own half.

Words were not minced at the half-time chat, urging our players to; lift what had been a sickly showing of will or desire in the opening 35 minutes; and get pressure on their backline, which had shown some signs of frailty.

The second period was much improved with the ball zipping between front-sticks and creating overloads in many areas of the pitch. Western’s ealier exertions were also beginning to show with their more laboured work in possession.
After a decent period of pressure on their left-back, Kit arrived late into the D (a fortuitous MO for goal-scoring, if not for warming-up) and smacked a first-time effort low into the sideboard to tie the match at 2-2.
We maintained our foot on the gas and took the lead following a nicely clipped shot from Colin (first goal for the club) through a crowded area.

We then had to only hold on for about five minutes or our first win since the New Year. Three points secured and all fear of relegation finally vanquished.

Notable performances from G and Patch, both of whom put in excellent efforts down the right-hand side of the pitch, taking the game forwards and covering up well in defense.

Two simple lessons learnt from the last two games.
1. Keep it simple, quick and accurate
2. Match and then beat the opposition’s work-rate
Will they be retained for the next game ?