The second warm up game of the 2011 season saw Monkton Phoenix entertain Tyneside Pumas Reds in what proved to be a most enjoyable night for the Monkton players, Coach and spectators.
With a bare 7 once again, Phoenix were forced into fielding players out of their favoured positions. But, with a point to prove, they went about their game like professionals. From the Kick off Monkton had the bit between their teeth and some slick passing and good movement meant it wasn’t long before Phoenix broke the deadlock. Jake bagging his first of the campaign just as he had promised his manager before kick-off. His goal was quickly followed by a Kane long range effort which found the net and Monkton knew tonight was their night. Jake hitting the net for a second time before going into the break with a 3-0 lead.
With a half time team talk of ‘same again please lads’ Phoenix went into the second half with their confidence sky high and picked off a well organised Pumas team with a brace from Ryan followed by man of the moment Charlie who wasn’t to be outdone as he slotted home a couple of his own. With the score at 7-0 and smiles all round Phoenix ended the second of 3 halves comfortably in front.
The 3rd ‘half’ began with a few changes to the outfield setup and saw Callum - ‘The Midfield General’ - rewarded for his hard work and battling with a start up-front. The rock solid defensive partnership of Jack and Kane were pushed into midfield alongside Jake and a new defensive pairing of Ryan and Charlie set up their stall in front of 'safe-hands Alex' who stayed between the sticks to carry on his superb performance.
However, these changes couldn’t tame a goal hungry Monkton side as Jake netted his hat-trick followed by a consolation goal from Pumas, who, to their credit never gave up the fight. This just spurred Monkton on as Kane hit the net for his second and Monkton’s 9th of the game before Ryan notched another for his hat-trick. 10-1 at full time and every bit deserved after all of the effort the lads have put in over the past weeks and months.
It all came together and it came together in style! What a performance! What a result! What a team!!
WELL DONE!!
