Now that has to be our best performance of the season... 9 players, no subs and slightly under the cosh in the second half, we managed to show real character and importantly discipline to draw the match 3-3. With RE in goal, we had JR, OK and JF as our defensive line. In midfield we had EH, TH and RD with GW and JC playing forward (3-3-2). Defensive line was excellent providing cover for each other and EH providing cover for JF who was up against their very impressive winger. JF's long throws were very effective, JR was heading well and OK intercepting. The quality of passing between defense and midfield was good and we seemed to be moving the ball with real tempo....GW and JC worked tirelessly to provide width and depth to our play, holding the ball up as much as possible... The opening goal came from a super move that made its' way out to the left attracting Blues players. The ball was then switch across the box.... EH had anticipated the play and got himself in a great position to the right edge of the box. Still had plenty to do, but got his foot round it and steered into the corner of the goal. A repeat of the same move led to another shot from EH a couple of minutes later, well saved this time by the keeper...The second came from another passing move which was set back for JC to strike it from the edge of the box, a super strike that hit the bat and unluckily for Blues went in off the defender... Half-time chat was same again, but keep focus... Second half with the wind getting up and very much against us we got pinned down...Blues came out and played some very good football with some nice rhythm to their play. They managed to play the ball into feet of a player sitting in front of back 3 ..He then constantly bounced it back bringing other players into play... After a couple of half chances, Blues scrambled a goal back... They then equalised soon after... Blues finding more space and getting the ball into their intelligent striker.... He seemed to turn and squeeze a shot in that some how made it into the net. Heads were possibly dropping and the pressure as mounting. 3 v 2 soon afterwards, cannot remember how, but the lack of possession was proving critical. I was now more concerned that the wheels could fall off. At this point Panthers came fighting back. Real spirit character and ability came through. Once tactical change was applied which sured up the middle a bit more....Panthers then managed to get an equaliser. A fantastic goal, with passes pinging around, before a through ball to GW from RD and then a super cross into the danger area from GW was tapped in by JC. So simple yet brilliant...Note to self, where on Earth did they learn that..! Final score 3-3... Excellent performance. Some very intelligent forward movement and great discipline in defence. Assisted by a midfield trio who are all prepared to track back when we lose the ball to help the defensive unit. Great game of football against an excellent team who get it down and play....
