Monkton Phoenix kicked off their long awaited Summer 2011 season against an unbeaten and on form Whiteleas Hotshots. Expecting a tough encounter, the Phoenix lads weren’t disappointed as Whiteleas started strong from the off and created a few first half chances but were thwarted by some great defending and tremendous saves. Not to be outdone, Phoenix stepped up a gear and were creating some great chances of their own – most notably an effort by frontman Jake Dawson which just cleared the bar and a great one-on-one Chance from midfielder Charlie McLeod which brought about a great stop by the Hotshots goalie.
0-0 at half time - Phoenix edging the first half with their possession and the better of the chances.
Changes at half time by the Phoenix Manager saw Callum Corkin introduced to partner Jack Georgeson at the back, Kane Rushton-Doughny pushing up to join Ryan Carling and second half sub Ethan Goss in a midfield trio. Jake Dawson coming off to rest after a dogged first half allowed Alex Reid to lead the line.
It wasn’t long before the changes made an impact with Alex nipping in at the front post to volley in from a great Ethan corner. 1-0 up and the shackles were off! Kane following just a minute later with a goal which lobbed the keeper from out wide after a Phoenix throw in. 2-0 to Phoenix, but it didn’t end there. Straight from the Hotshots kick off, Phoenix charged down the ball and Kane's long range effort found the back of the Whiteleas net to make it 3-0. Kane claimed a well deserved hat-trick when he put away Monkton’s 4th before coming off to a standing ovation. 4-0 up and coasting, Jake and Charlie were reintroduced following their spell on the sideline and soon it was 5 as Ryan found the net with 5 minutes still to play.
5-0 the final score.
A great team performance from front to back!
One note for improvement to what was a great start to the season - we must remember our passing game even if we are 5-0 up.
