Ganja FC faced AFC Fylde in a league away match at Mill Farm on 12 August 2023, with kick-off at 3:00pm. The visitors secured a convincing 2-0 victory, showcasing their attacking prowess and solid defensive organisation throughout the match.
Ganja FC lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, designed to provide a strong defensive base while allowing for fluid attacking transitions. Jerk Chicken occupied the goalkeeping position, shielded by a back four consisting of Viren Mistry and Reggae-Reggae Sauce as right and left defenders, respectively, with Tyrone Mings and Bob Marley forming the central defensive partnership. In midfield, Kid President and YJ operated as central midfielders, tasked with controlling the tempo and linking play. The attacking trio featured Reyhan Malik on the right, Ali G on the left, and Frank Brown in the central attacking role, supporting lone striker Michail Antonio.
The substitutes for Ganja FC included Levi Roots, Jamie Blanchard, and Starvin' Marvin, who would be called upon later in the match to influence the game.
The match began with an intense pace, and it wasn't long before the first yellow card was issued. Frank Brown received a caution in the 12th minute for a late challenge, setting the tone for a fiercely contested encounter. Just four minutes later, Reggae-Reggae Sauce followed suit, receiving a yellow card for a foul on an opposing player.
As the first half progressed, Ganja FC began to assert their dominance. In the 34th minute, Frank Brown redeemed himself by scoring the opening goal. After a well-timed short pass from Reyhan Malik, Brown found space inside the box and finished confidently with his right foot, sending the travelling fans into raptures.
The momentum continued to build for Ganja FC, and just five minutes later, they doubled their lead. Reyhan Malik, who had been a constant threat on the right flank, scored with a powerful header from a corner delivered by YJ. This goal, coming in the 39th minute, left AFC Fylde reeling as they headed into the half-time break.
With the score at 2-0, Ganja FC made tactical changes at the hour mark. Frank Brown, who had already made his mark on the game, was substituted for Levi Roots, while Ali G made way for Jamie Blanchard. These changes aimed to maintain the team's momentum and freshen up the attacking options.
In the 73rd minute, Ganja FC made their final substitution, bringing on Starvin' Marvin for Viren Mistry. This move further solidified their defensive structure while allowing for additional attacking flair as they sought to maintain their lead.
Despite AFC Fylde's attempts to claw back into the match, Ganja FC's defence held firm, with Jerk Chicken rarely tested in goal. The visitors showcased a disciplined performance, effectively managing the game and limiting their opponents' chances.
As the final whistle blew, Ganja FC celebrated a well-deserved 2-0 victory, with Reyhan Malik earning the accolade of Player of the Match for his influential performance, which included a goal and an assist. The result not only boosts Ganja FC's confidence but also sets a positive tone for the remainder of the season.
