The Excel Centre hasn't been the best hunting ground for Affinity and although there would be no points return today there was much about this performance to be pleased about.
The opening exchanges were fairly even and it was clear that St Johns would provide a sterner test than both Elim and LOWFORS. St Johns were very comfortable on the ball and wanted to play a passing game. Affinity countered St Johns by closing them down quickly with Lee and James making good blocks. All over the pitch Affinity handed St John's players off to team mates which was effective in stifling St Johns attempts to long range efforts.
Affinity moved the ball well themselves on both sides of the field. Lee managed to break free from his defender unleashing a fierce shot that beat the keeper but found the underside of the bar with James not able to get any power on the loose ball and the keeper smothered his shot.
St Johns took the lead with a powerful shot on the turn giving Dale no chance as it hit the top left corner of his net. Affinity continued to try and play good football despite being a goal down and were comfortable until half time.
The second half was an equally open affair with both teams playing an open game. St Johns second goal was also from long range with a chip that just beat Dale and dipped under the bar. Affinity continued on the front foot but increasingly frantic as they pushed for the goal that would be the least they deserved.
Josh P playing at right back and Jobo made several good runs overlapping midfield but crosses failed to find Affinity colleagues. Steve W was winning most of the headers and with Ian sweeping up cleanly alongside and St Johns looked happy with their 2 goal lead.
With full time looming Affinity got a well deserved goal with Mike stabbing the ball home from a cross from the right. Affinity pressed hard for an equaliser but St Johns held out for the win.
A good all round Affinity team performance. Man of the match is awarded to Josh P for a sound defensive showing and numerous attacking sorties in each half
