The day was almost over before it had even began with the referee threatening to call off the game if we could not source a replacement kit as both teams were in yellow. With an historic blue kit sourced from the cupboard (unfortunately tight on some!) we were all ready to go.
The Croygas side contained 2 enforced changes from the previous week (with Bradders away and Ross S recovering from having his jaw broken). In came Adam “Hulk” Lynch to start at left back and “Pistol” Pete Gauntlett to lead the line. So the team as Aiden, Sam-Dave B-Reeno-Hulk, Jim-Matt-Rambo-Gal, Pistol-Reiss.
The match began with a very cagey opening with both teams struggling to get the ball down and play with many physical challenges being put it. All of this led to a largely forgettable first 15 mins until one of those heavy challenged caused Reeno to hobble off and be replaced by “Justin” Jordan. Not long after the first goal of the game came as goal machine Reiss was put through and rounded the last defender, keeper and tucked the ball home.
Croygas continued to struggle to get into the game and handle the physical approach of the Rio side. Rio continued to have the better of the play although generally restricted to long range efforts for the organised Gas defence. With half time rapidly approaching Croygas went 2 up. Reiss against put through and despite his best efforts to ruin the chance (as he decided it would be a good idea to try and take on their entire defence twice!) the centre half made an excellently timed last ditch tackle which the ref vey harshy decided was a penalty kick. Up stepped Jim and as always he made no mistake.
At this point it was important to hold out until half time but this was not to be as Rio got back into the game with a penalty from a tackle by Jordan that is the definition of the word scything. When interviewed after the game Justin made it clear for his hatred of the polish by stating “I f*%*ing hate them, it’s a stupid country”. Controversial words indeed there from the Croygas centre back no doubt the FA will be looking for him to explain himself.
Half time came with the score still 2-1 however there was a mood of frustration within the Croygas camp at their first half performance, and a determination to play to our potential. One change at half time with Reeno coming back on the replace pistol up top. It’s funny at how a player can miraculously recover when a change of position is mentioned eh…
The second half could not have got off to a worse start with Rio domination and forcing a couple of smart saves from Aiden before a long range effort levelled the scores at 2 apiece.
A couple more saves from Aiden and one needlessly over-elaborate attempt at a finish from the Rio forward left the score at 2-2 and the game still in the balance. Croygas managed to begin to get a foothold in the game, utilising the space the Garry had on the left flank. It was in one of these attacks that Reiss put us 3-2 ahead and then finally 4-2 ahead with a shot that took a big deflection past the keeper. Hat Trick secured and standard set by the manager of the day achieved. 8 goals in 3 games is a spectacular start to the season from someone who is at times proving unplayable for defenders.
Croygas managed to see out the rest of the game without any major incident (barring one spectacular save from Aiden) and the 4-2 win confirmed to continue the excellent start to the season.
Player Ratings
Aiden – Some excellent saves at important times 8.5
Sam – Never gave an inch 8.3
Dave B – His experience was vital in steadying the ship during the shakey period 8.5
Reeno – Linked up well with Reiss when moved up top 8.4
Hulk – Battled hard 8
Jim – Had to dig in. Scored pen 8
Matt – Like all of the midfield had a hard game against a physical side 7.8
Rambo – Same as above 7.8
Gal – Extremely strong 2nd half once he started seeing some of the ball 8.2
Pistol – Put in a shift, limited service 7.5
Reiss – Hat Trick, Game winner MOM 9.5 (lost point 5 for the pen!)
Subs
Jordan – Gave away pen otherwise solid 7.5
Ken – Did what Ken does 7.5
Rossy – N/A not on long enough to get a mark.
