On a bright but windy morning, Phoenix Lions finally returned to Selkent league action after several cup matches and a postponement. Opponents were Dartford White who had been a thorn in Lions side in previous seasons so it was sure to be a tough test. The pitch was a good size but the grass was very long meaning passing was going to be difficult. Archie Roast was missing this week due to a hand injury.
Kick Off
Lions started off well and played some good football, despite the pitch. They looked commanding at the back, with Charlie Hanmore acting as sweeper with Ben Chesley and Euan Corbett-Smith either side of him. James Ash was getting a feel for the ball and finding plenty of space out on the left wing. The ever bombastic Tom Wray was everywhere as usual. Henry Powell was making himself busy up front.
Despite the early pressure, the Dartford keeper made some decent saves and their defence were getting behind the ball in numbers making them difficult to break down.
Eventually a breakthrough came after a good move allowed Tom Wray to come flying in and hit a hammer shot past the keeper and in for 1-0.
More chances came and went and with the score at 1-0, Lions were always wary of being caught out.
And sure enough, a good move saw Dartford squeeze past Charlie Hanmore who mis-timed his tackle and then the striker hit a high shot just over keeper Josh Andersons head and creep into the net. 1-1.
In typical fashion, the Lions fought back and were determined to regain the lead. James Ash took it upon himself to sieze the initiative and went on a mazy run through the Dartford team, a run which started in his own half. As he pushed the ball past the last defender, no other player had touched the ball and he hammered a shot into the net. However, the Dartford linesman had his flag raised for off-side and the Dartford Assistant manager who was referee disallowed the goal. Phoenix parents were up in arms and complained loudly with some of them having to be restrained. Manager Jason Ash, who never argues, also complained at which point the referee admitted he didn't know the rules and asked if Jason could referee better. At which point Lions assistant Martyn Whitman stepped in and took the whistle.
The game finally continued but the stoppage had shaken the Lions and they found themselves under some sustained pressure for the first time in the game. A clearance from Lions keeper Josh fell straight to a Dartford midfielder who promptly lofted a shot straight back over Josh's head and in for 1-2. A totally underserved lead, especially given the prior indicent.
Half Time - Dartford White 2 Phoenix Lions 1
Playing with the wind behind them, Phoenix started the second half well and had a few chances but the Dartford keeper continued to keep them at bay.
A susccession of corners led to the equaliser as a George Dennington cross came in and Charlie Hanmore found himself in space to turn and finish in style into the roof of the Dartford net. 2-2. Charlie's celebrations were a release of frustration and he was determined to fire his team up to go for the win.
Lions now had their tails up but saw a draw as not good enough. They continued to press and another corner saw George and Ben play a short one. George took the ball on into the box, weaving past the Dartford defence as he went and then slotted a fine finish into the bottom right hand corner. 3-2.
The celebrations that followed showed that Phoenix felt justice had now been served but they still had to see the game out.
Despite a bit of pressure from Dartford, Phoenix held on for a well deserved victory, especially given the outrageous off-side decision earlier in the game.
Full Time - Dartford White 2 Phoenix Lions 3
Lions first league win of the season will give them confidence for the weeks ahead. They have only played 3 games compared to some of the teams who have played 5 or 6 and with League Cup action again next week, there will be games to catch up on. Hopefully the weather will hold for a few weeks!
Apart from the London Cup result last week, the whole team appear to be taking on board tactics learnt in training and are passing the ball well. With fitness also improving, they look in good shape.
Come on you Lions!
