The 4s continued their recent run of good form to make it 6 wins in 6 in all competitions. The win was made even more satisfying given the fact that, once again, Meads had gone behind only to come back and win 3-1 through goals from Dave Brennan x2 and George.
Meads, welcoming back Neil Cooper for his first appearance of the season, started the game well, putting Fitzwilliam under early pressure. The best chance of the opening exchanges was to fall to Dave B, who latched onto a through ball, cut across the tracking defender, but fired the ball wide when through on goal. Meads then began to get flustered by the pressure that Fitzwilliam were putting them under and their usual composure betrayed them for a period. This was not helped by Eric going off injured after 10 minutes, even if his replacement, Dan B, shows distinction in any position he takes up. Fitzwilliam took the lead halfway through the half when their midfielder ghosted through volleyed home from close range after a cross from the left.
Meads looked to get straight back into the game and were given the ideal opportunity when Dave was tripped in the box and a pen was awarded. The stage was set for Owen, who entered stage right, picked up the ball and placed it on the spot with confidence, an air of anticipation went around riverside lands, photographers waiting in preparation for the celebration, whistle blows...then silence and a delayed gasp of cold winter air as the ball ricocheted off the top of the bar and over. Owen's face slumped and went white as a sheet as though he had just seen George's suit for his wedding. It didn't matter in the end as the story ends well.
The equaliser was to come gift wrapped as an early christmas present from their goalkeeper, who dropped a high cross from Kev to leave Dave with the simplest of tap ins to get his 2nd goal in as many games for the 4s. half time 1-1
The second half began the same way that Meads had started the game. With the emphasis on turning the fitzwilliam defence to get behind their ridiculously high line Meads began to put Fitwilliam under more pressure. The goal was to come after some good work from the rejuvenated Rasheed, who had flown out of the blocks in the 2nd half. Rasheed set up George, who took his finish early and took the keeper by surprise who allowed the low shot to squirm under his grasp and roll agonisingly into the net. 2-1.
Meads continued to pile on the pressure with Jon clearing any danger with consummate ease at the back. The lead was to be doubled about 5 minutes later when a lovely reverse ball from Owen set Rasheed away down the right hand side. He floated the ball to the back post where Dave was arriving on cue to power a header in at the near post, 3-1 and Fitzwilliam struggling to stay in the game.
There were to be no scares late in the game with Fitzwilliam running out of steam, a Roni header nearly extended the lead and other half chances failed to find their target, but none were to matter as the game finished with Meads winning 3-1.
MOM went to Jonathan at centre back for an unassuming performance with no mistakes. He won every header, attacking the ball with purpose and rarely gave the ball away when in possession. A mention also to Rasheed whose 2nd half performance was a catalyst for Meads to go on and win the game, with confidence flowing he tore apart his full back.
Another good win for the 4s who are in danger of having a very good season. With one game to go until christmas and then a huge AFA cup game immediately after the christmas break, the next two games may shape the rest of the season. One thing is for sure, the 4s will be going into both games full on confidence. Bring it on.
