The Boners first game of the new season was in some ways similar to the previous one. They had been allocated to play on the same pitch and were up against an unknown team and full of confidence and a determination to put things right this season. As a result of discussions analysing the failings of the previous season it was clear that a new schema for the team had to be put in place. Building up from the back this would be now be a team that would be hard to beat and defensively focused.
Ben Abbott now paired Simon Epps at the back and this allowed Josh Sloane to push up into his preferred role of midfield. It was hoped that Sloane could now develop a greater understanding with fellow midfield Pedro Santi and the front man Mark Darbinho, the trio having scored 21 goals last season. Importantly Dave would also add a dynamic option in the midfield and allow an option to rotate more often.
The game began with FC Barceboneher pushing into sixth gear immediately and playing some lovely passing football that resulted in a spectacular first minute goal for interim Captain; Darbinho. So unexpected was the start that some in the Barceboneher team did not realise that the ball had been steered into the back of the net.
The rest of the game was well conducted by the Boners who surrendered the initiative to Any Old Iron in return for a chance to hit on the counter with their wide men. Protecting the lead was more important than going in search for a second. Indeed in previous games the Boners had given away their lead going in search for more goals instead of concentrating on defending more vigilantly. This would be a test of Boner’s resilience and focus to see the game out.
Having been set up to secure the points and man marking the opposition, the chances to put the game to bed were fewer than expected. It was going to always be asking a lot to make that quick transition from defensive man-marking to fluid counter attack play. Holding the ball up under press was also fairing difficult. At the back things were tight as ever though with Simon Epps mentoring Ben and easing him into the role of a defensive minded player. The only shot on target Any Old Iron achieved was parried away for a corner by keeper Ryan Bogdan Chandler.
At the Final whistle a few things were proven. Ben Abbott could play in defence when partnered with Simon Epps, Dave and Darbinho could combine to score. More importantly Fc BarceBoneHer could be relied on to put the necessary work rate in to close down free runner, man mark and see off a one nil lead.
With new trophies available for the end of the season awards, including Ballon d’or and Kodak Moment it appears Josh Sloane could go from Players Player to Dick of The Season after Power Crazy Captain Darbinho let rip upon catching him watching Raul Madrid vs Unathletic during their own game. This lack of respect for authority has now seen the armband return to Sloane for the foreseeable future.
A look ahead to this Thursdays fixtures see that Los Pollos are sitting out. This means The Might Boners go into their game against Deportivo La Corona knowing a win would see them go top of the table for the first time in their history! FIRED UP MUCH BOYS?!?!
