In driving rain and wind this was not going to be an easy tie……….
Compared to the last few weeks Classics came out the blocks extremely quick and sharp. With the first round defeat of last year fresh in the minds, Classics attacked with purpose and intent.
A couple of quick early exchanges from defence to midfield to attack, saw some early strikes at Mayfair’s goal.
Mayfair tried to respond, however Classic’s defence were quick to distinguish any attacks on their goal and keep the momentum of there own. It was a matter of time before Classics made the break through………
With the forwards looking lively and dangerous, a quick burst of passes between the midfield saw the ball break free, with Murphy doing one of his trademark runs to open up the space, the ball fell to Gill who in a split second struck the ball with a curling shot that left the goalkeeper completely flat footed.
1-0 Classics………
Sensing that one goal was not enough, Classics continued to probe and fight
To contain Mayfair’s renewed efforts to try and level the game.
The main battle was in the midfield, fortunately for Classics this is an area where they are blessed with superb talent. Once again Lam the “Midfield Enforcer” was letting the visitors know he was there. Mayfair continued to press, and almost got an equaliser, however
last seasons Player’s player of the year goalkeeper Mark Joseph was quick to thwart Mayfairs best efforts.
With the rain intensifying by the minute both teams were finding it very difficult to control the ball. Classics were not about to let the elements stop them from playing their game and started to ask questions of Mayfair defence.
GOAL!!!!
Another surging attack saw classics rampaging into Mayfairs half. This time a neat
exchange between Tim, Papi & Lam saw Earl Francis break down Mayfair’s left.
With the strikers galloping through to support him, Earl looked up and unleashed a 30 yarder power drive into the top corner, Ronnie Radford could not had done better himself!!!
2-0 Classics!!!…..
With 5 mins left to go,you would have thought that classics would have protected their lead, however the best was yet to come……….
A superb ball from the captain Fitz sailed over the midfield and allowed
Mark Calvert to sprint down the wing. In a flash of brilliance Mark took his first touch which was to knock the ball around the right back, Mark then side stepped the defendert o unleash a stunning shot that just flashed past the post.
This signalled the type of mood Classics were in.
Classics seemed to be in the driving seat, and with a few minutes left to spare
The referee signalled the ending of the first half.
The second half began with some early changes to the attack and midfield personnel.
Classics seemed to have dropped their level a bit and allowed Mayfair to gain
Slight belief, this resulted in a sustained attack throughout the second half.
However Classics stood firm and saw the second half through to the end.
Nice performance, clean sheet and through to the next round.
Report written by Michael (Drogba) Murphy
