This was an action packed game with so many twists and turns we will go straight to the action. Swiss raced in to a two goal lead inside 10 minutes, the first a penalty from their first attack after Latini had initially failed to deal with a throw in on the halfway line, the second also came from lackluster Latini defending when a Swiss midfielder ran unchallenged to play in the striker to score. With the game so early we knew we had plenty of time to get back in the match and confidently encouraged each other to keep playing and be patient. We slowly improved and then we had the water break. Whatever was in the water worked as we scored two quick goals before half time. Great work from the Essex Boys (they sound like they’re from Essex), JT, Raver and Biggers who played in the recently goal shy Duplo to convert. Then a free kick from the half way line was lofted to the far post for Big Ben to nod home. Half time 2-2. Minutes after the restart and Latini took the lead for the first time in the match, wonderful disco feet from JT in the middle of the park saw him dance away from tackles to play in Duplo who was full of confidence, he hit his shot early to the far post, the ball deflected across goal to the other post and in for a great finish. Now we had enough chances to finish the game off but our finishing let us down. Duplo, Biggers and JK had clear opportunities to score but their efforts were saved or off target. Biggers deserved better luck when his 30-yard screamer crashed back off the cross bar. Then something weird happened, Latini players began complaining of groin injuries. No fewer than four players were debating who should come off to be replaced by our 2nd and final sub. The Swiss exploited the Quadruples and disappointingly retook the lead, the damaged caused by their left wing substitute (MoM) who had a very lively game. First he cut inside, evaded challenges and scored with his weaker foot, and later turned provider with a low back post cross that was slotted home much to Latini’s disbelief. Another water break and another regroup for Latini. In to the last 10 minutes and Smash got smashed in the penalty box, which was time for Pet Shop to smash home the equalizer in to the top corner. With the game destined for a fair 4-4- draw, a drop ball on the half way line was sportingly gently passed by Pet Shop to the Swiss team, literally 10 yards away, as the rest of the Latini team berated our stand in coach for not clearing the ball to the other end of the pitch the Swiss players treated the ball like a hot potato and were equally confused by Pet Shops generosity, effectively handing them the initiative to have one final attack. Alas, after 8 to 10 seconds of open play the Latini players came alive, Pet Shop (him again), dispossessed the hesitant Swiss midfielder, the ball reached Biggers who played in Duplo with still a lot to do, and Duplo (MoM) completed his hat trick with a low drive for the winning goal. The discussion after the game on whether the goal should stand was yes it should, as the ball had been in play unchallenged for a considerable amount of time, however we sympathise with the Swiss for the manner of the winning goal and regonise we got lucky. Thanks to the Swiss for the game who played with lots of spirit and energy, and caused us plenty of problems all afternoon. Next game v Vikings, 3pm Turf City 1 Kit & drinks: - POB
The Swiss handed the 3 points to Latini in the end (thats certainly how we feel). A fantastic game for the neutrals with the game swinging both teams at different stages. We started the game with the objective to be ready from the get go, after last weeks quick fire 0-2. We managed that, starting with a bang. Ntoudi converted a penalty in the first minute after Dimitri was brought down in the box. Soon after, within 10 mins, We were 2-0 up after Dimi beat the goalkeeper and defender with pace. We lost control and Latini scored twice to equalise before half time. Game heated up toward the end of the half after an unsavoury incident including Latini goalie and Regis. Was rather unnecessary for the goalkeeper to have his elbows and knee stick out after he caught the ball. Both benches got involved and was no surprise that Regis that to be brought off thereafter. Swiss certainly felt that some action had to be taken for such unnecessary behaviour/ play. Anyway, back to the football. A further blow for us after Latini got behind the backline again and took the lead. No heads fell, and a great run from new signing (on debut) Alex finished with a sweet strike in the bottom left corner. 3-3 game on By this time, Swiss very much on the front foot and creating a couple of chances. Dimi rounded off another great performance with a fantastic strike. 4-3 swiss back in front. 10 crazy last minutes then started for the swiss which eventually meant we talked away for 0 points. First a missed clearance gifted Latini a penalty which they converted. Second, a strange back-pass, our player didnt realise the ball is "live" and Latini forwards stealing it to successfully convert a counter attack. That was literally the last kick of the game. Thanks Latini for the game. Heartbreak for the Swiss and we have to improve when we dont have the ball if we want to start closing games with more points on the board.