Monkton Phoenix added their first trophy to the cabinet this weekend after a superb display of talent. Phoenix didnt let nerves get the better of them as they turned up relaxed and in a confident mood long before kick off to soak up the atmosphere of what promised to be a wonderful day. Kitted out in their new tracksuit tops, Phoenix looked the part and the manager knew this wasgoing to be a day to remember for all involved.
A light warm-up away from the hustle and bustle of the stadium gave the lads time to relax and compose themselves before heading to the changing rooms for the pre-match pep talk. The atmosphere inside the changing rooms was one of confidence and the manageer had a good feeling as he gave his team talk and announced his starting line-up. The announcment was poosibly the hardest thing the manager has had to do since taking over this season, knowing that with a squad of 9 he had to start with 2 lads on the bench. With the team playing so well all season his decision was made even harder. But the announcement was greated with a proffesional attitude and knowledge that this was a day for the team not individuals and the manager was impressed by the reception his announcement got.
'Dan Zahra in goal, Jack Georgeson and Ethan Goss in defence, Ryan Carling wide on the right, Kane Doughney centre midfield, Charlie Mcleod wide on the left, Alex Reid upfront. Todays subs, Jake Dawson and Callum Corkin. Lets go out there and play like we can, keep it simple, keep it tight at the back, get the ball into those wide positions and use the width of the pitch to strectch the game.'
These weren't 8 year old lads, these were professional footballers. They sat and took it all in, knowing exactly what they needed to do to get their hands on that cup. Out they headed with the mascots, Danny McLeod and Sam Reid and a spring in their step, music playing as they walked onto the pitch with their oppenents and the officials to line up infront of a packed stand of spectators with banners and horns cheering them as their names were read out over the loudspeaker. The occasion was enough to overwhelm any group of young lads, but not Phoenix!
The game kicked off and Monkton applied the pressure immediately, penning Whitleas in their own half for long periods, the Hotshots 'keeper by far the busiest player on the pitch as Monkton forced corner after corner Alex coming close to notching and Monkton struck the woodwork. Ryan's hardwork soon paid off as his shot found the net and the roof lifted of the main stand as the players celebrated. Kane got a well deserved second for Monkton soon after and things were definately going to plan when Ryan added his second to make it 3-0 at half time.
The introduction of Callum for Charlie and Jake up front for Alex meant that Monkton could keep up the momentum in the second half - and thats exactly what happened. Phoenix continued pressing and again the Whiteleas 'keeper was kept busy. Jake with a couple great chances, Ethans freekick going out for a corner, Ryan hitting the post as the keeper somehow got a toe to his shot and tipped another monkton effort over the bar....these were just a few examples of what was an action packed match. Kane Doughney sealed the victory when he scored his second to make the final score 4-0 and sparked jubilant scenes at the final whistle.
Captain Dan lead his team up to collect the trophy after Ryan had collected his Man of the Match award and the celebrations continued, cheers, tears, applause (and that fog horn!) as the players took it in turn to kiss the cup before raising it above their heads smiles beaming from ear to ear!!
This Cup Final is what this team is all about. The togetherness and the determination to play as a team was great to watch. The way the team is developing is plain to see. The closeness of the families of the players is rare and great to be a part of. Long may it continue. This team has something special and something work keeping. Not just on the pitch but off it as well.
Thanks for your continued support and WELL DONE to everyone connectet to the team!
WELL DONE TO ALL THE LADS, YOU'VE DONE US ALL PROUD!!
Rob
