1TM ran out deserved winners against the Hibs, but the match was swung decisively in the first half by two poor decisions by the officials. The match started out relatively even, with both sides keeping possession well. Latini's first goal came after a lapse in concentration by the Hibs back line meant they played Sharples on-side, and his one-on-one ended with the ball in the back of the net. Joey then made a couple of fine saves to deny Latini stretching their advantage, as they started to find more joy on the left wing. Hibs, however, weren't without threat, and their goal - a follow in from Bolts after the Latini keeper spilled it - was inexplicably ruled out by the linesman for offside, despite the fact Bolton was behind two defenders when the initial shot by Tiago was taken. Hibs disappointment at being denied an equalizer was compounded a few minutes later, when a ball over the top by Latini ended in Joey - our stand-in keeper - making a tackle at full stretch which appeared to nick the ball before the man. The referees deemed it a foul just outside the box and, after consultation with the linesmen, gave a red card for a last man challenge. After that, Hibs played well for the next 15 mins and kept Latini at bay, only to concede a second right on the stroke of half time from another through Latini ball that Sharples dispatched. From then on it was a massive mountain to climb, and Latini did a professional job in killing the game early in the second half. With the heat of a 1pm kick off punishing Hibs' 10 men, the goals continued to flow for Latini, and the match ended 7-0. Unfortunate that the officials ended any chance of the match being a proper contest after 30 mins, but full credit to Latini for a strong performance and best of luck for the season.
1TM faced off against a decent Hibs side, eager to build on recent performances. With a stronger squad available compared to last week’s depleted options, 1TM welcomed back key players Duplo and Stinks. The latter making his first appearance of the season. 1TM started brightly, taking control of possession and creating several early chances. However, the Hibs’ goalkeeper was in inspired form, pulling off several saves in 1v1 situations to keep the scoreline level in the opening minutes. The breakthrough came in the 11th minute, when Racky won the ball in midfield and played a delightful through ball to Sharples, who calmly slotted home to make it 1-0. The turning point of the match came soon after when Flat White was brought down on the edge of the box by the Hibs’ goalkeeper. Despite the protests, he was subsequently shown a red card. With Hibs reduced to 10 men, 1TM took full advantage, showing ruthless edge in front of goal. 1TM added six more goals, young WEX stole the show with a thunderous effort from the edge of the area. Sharples put in a standout performance, contributing four goals and two assists. A great victory for 1TM. Special thanks to Hibs and the match officials, as well as supporters Mr & Mrs Cow, Boggy and Wex’s dad. Final Score: 1TM 7-0 Hibs Kit: - Balls: - 1TM MOM: - Tinks Hibs MOM: - Joe Poulton