Hook panthers 2 v 2 beacon hill Cobras (rob, jasper, motm James).
We were expecting the Cobras to give us a tough game after our first
encounter and they did not disappoint. Cobras are the only team to
beat league leaders Mytchett this season, in the league ;-)
Game of two halves just like the first game. Beacon hill were much the
better team in first half, with Panthers putting themselves under a
lot of pressure by giving away the ball cheaply and swinging and
missing as a result of panicked play that required the ball to be
controlled first.
Cobras were clever and calm on the ball and deservedly took the lead.
JR put in a last ditch sliding tackle and OK stepped in a couple
of times to prevent a dangerous pass..Similarly RE was quick to come
out and block a shot after closing down well.
Panthers probably had the best chance of the first half but did not
capitalise.. Half time was a welcome break for home team and
opportunity for the boys
to regroup.. Half time chat was about showing composure on the ball
and ensuring there are options, particularly wide and short. Second
half started very well with some of our best play in quite some time,
under pressure and on a tricky old pitch we played our way round the
opposition a few times. We once again had a chance that seemed easier
got miss but somehow, I'm still not sure how, we failed to
equalise..cobras were now the team counter attacking particularly down
our left but JF was working tirelessly, as well as getting the ball
under control before playing forward. EHs corners were of the
highest quality, whipped in hard and just needed the slightest touch
from a Panther. TH from CDM was getting the passing going using those
around him very well. Whilst looking for the equaliser a somewhat
fortunate goals was scored by the Cobras to make it 2-0...
The boys to their credit probably showed how far they have come this
year by rolling up their sleeves and trying to get a result. A quality
free kick from the impressive GW on left edge of box was headed
into the top corner by RD, who probably broke the record for the
most headers in one match. He and JR both received nose bleeds from
being hitting hard and at close range by the ball. 2-1 down with a few
minutes to go, we created a couple of chances, one of which was a run
down the right wing, defender blocked the initial shot, but a clever
lay off to JW who finished well to equalise. JW is now
officially the fox in the box, as he always seems to be in the right
place at the right time..
The throw-ins from the fullbacks were working really well,
particularly with EHE clever skills of flicking on the throw with
his head. ON was probably the most combative I've seen him this
season and he was a close contender for the man of the match. EHE
tracked back very well, which really helped out the central midfield
unit.
Quick mention, well done to EHE and GW. Both were feeling unwell
this week, with GW feeling poorly in the game, but it did not stop
him from putting in a fine performance... Final score 2-2.
Huge thank you to JR and GE for linesman duties this week.
