Two weeks since our last game and everyone was chomping at the bit, ready for the Reporter Cup tie against a well established and experienced Senior Division team Swanscombe Tigers.
Tough selection dilemmas saw Jameo, Ryan, Eddie and Hambo fill the bench as the first eleven took to the field. A decent warm up and preparation followed ready for the quick start that we had hoped, but within 2 minutes the Tigers were in front after good wingplay and pin point cross picked out the forward who made no mistake with his head, not the best of starts but we responded well.
Getting the ball down at every opportunity, moving forward and searched in vain for the equaliser, it certainly was not for the want of trying as the team, brilliantly led by skipper Sam moved the ball well and the desire to get back into the game was pleasing.
Plumb cutting inside on a couple of occassions saw him force the Tigers keeper into 2 quality saves from long range. Our pressure led to a couple of corners which created a couple of chances but our final ball was beginning to fall short and invited Tigers forward. Nervy defending was encouraging Tigers too, their no2 who seemed to be everywhere, popping up on both wings on regular occassions. We knew we wouldnt have it all our own way against a top side and ust as we thought we had seen out the half, a penalty was given, three challenges in the box led to the 3rd one being given as a foul. The Tigers playing making no mistake from 12 yds for 2-0.
Half time came and went with our focus mainly on the final ball and right pass selection - we felt the next goal was crucial and would need to take our chances should they come our way - a greater sense of togetherness is now clearly visable within the team and its a pleasure to see.
The second half started and we slipped straight into the groove moving the ball well for the first ten minutes or so but never really testing the keeper. Daren was subbed soon after with an injury, replaced by Jameo. More good forward play by the impressive Tigers no2 made it 3-0 and it seemed a long way back. Eddie soon replaced Nath and the tempo was lifted as Eddie, keen to impress, pushed us forward setting Sav free for one effort and Plumb free for another. Unfortunately, the team was beginning to tire and our forwards looked a bit isolated, the final change saw Cheese replaced by Hambo, who scored with his first touch after excellent work by Sav. The last few frantic minutes were played out as we pushed for the second but the Tigers held firm and won through 3-1.
A great test for of us, pitting our wits against quality opposition, this along with the game last season against Real Gima, shows we arent far off, and we must take heart in our performance and be proud of what we have achieved today.
A special mention though for our skipper and his main man Mo ! who today gave us this platform to perform well against a tough and well organised team. They battled like trojans in the centre today and were never second best - well done fellas keep it up !
