World Cup Game 1: After a thrilling 2-2 draw, it took a nervy penalty shoot-out to separate Ashley Gareth Vaughan's Italy from Peter's Ghana in the opening game of the World Cup. Ghana took the lead in the first half when keeper Croz released Chris Fletcher down the centre, and he waltzed to the edge of the area before finishing low beyond SuBo. Italy struck straight back when Griffin's corner from the left was swiped into the net for an own goal by Toobs. The Black Stars continued to carve open good chances with some slick movement but dubious finishing (Patto hitting the post from Chibbert's cross while Fletch continued to be a nuisance in the area), before a nice one-two ended with Pete teeing up a sprinting Fletch for his second. Italy did come close before half time as Griffiths hit both posts with a quick shot, but somehow the ball spun wide.
Energy levels dipped in the second half, and the keepers at both ends made some great saves to keep the scores unchanged, with SuBo smothering several low shots while Toobs prevented a Patto own-goal by acrobatically tipping the spinning ball wide. The Azzurri began to pile on the pressure as Griffiths and Kieran saw shots go wide, but eventually the stubborn Ghana defence (spearheaded by Spence) gave way as Jameshit a shot worthy of the world stage by absolutely ramming the ball into the top left corner from 15 yards.
The match ended all square, and Italy eventually won on penalties when SuBo guessed correctly to save Fletch's spot-kick, allowing Ash to move into the quarter finals to face either Chile or Algeria who play next Monday.
