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Viper Reds vs Vipers
While there’s still many football questions to answer this season like, who will win the Premier League, the Champions’ League, the FA Cup, the Europa Cup and later on the World Cup, all eyes were on Monkton Stadium tonight to see the outcome of this much anticipated derby. Little did the 12th Earl of Derby know, way back in 1780 when he founded his now world-famous horse race, that the ‘derby’ between Monkton Vipers and Monkton Viper Reds would produce such a fantastic sporting contest.
And whoever said football is a funny old game had obviously never seen the Vipers’ coaches before the kick-off for this match! This Reds vs Vipers encounter, the second of the season, was a right old nail-biter. And with memories of the Vipers cruelly nicking the previous match with a late, late goal, the tension was building on the sidelines. The coaches and mams and dads waited nervously for the start.
On the pitch however, it was a different matter as two teams of mates looked forward to just another game of footy. Excellent sportsmanship from both teams saw the players enjoying the match as the game was played from start to finish in an excellent but competitive spirit.
With superb shot-stopper Alex “the Cat” in goal, Captain Marvel and the Lewis “the Rock” Ireland in defence, the tough tackling Jordan was pushed into midfield. Alongside was the livewire Jack and midfield maestro Adam Elstob: this midfield had more bite than a Great White Shark! The mercurial Harry Edwardson was up front, with playmaker Lewis Keenan, the outstanding Adam Wardle and silky smooth defender Taylor, waiting to get in the thick of the action.
An early sniff of danger from the Vipers was quickly dealt with by Lewis with a great interception. Neat work from Harry who did well to work the ball onto his right foot but his long-range shot was well saved by the impressive Matty in goal for the Vipers.
Next it was Jack’s turn to get into the action with a fantastic 1:2:1:2 passing move with Harry down the left wing. “Just like watchin’ Brazil!” was the verdict of Coach JT. Further Reds’ pressure was unrewarded, as this time Sam stepped up for the Vipers to make a crucial tackle.
A great free-kick from Kai whistled past the post with Kyle almost getting his head to the ball as the match turned into an end to end battle between 2 sides in great form.
Alex pulled off a smart save to turn the ball round the post and keep the Vipers at bay. But after a scruffy midfield tussle a high looping shot from Kai gave the keeper no chance as the ball looped into the net to give the vipers a fortunate lead, 0-1.
The excellent Adam Wardle then replaced Adam Elstob who had injured his leg during another full-blooded tackle. And it didn’t take long for Adam Wardle to make his mark as he latched onto the ball inside the area and hit the back of the net. The Reds were deservedly back on equal terms at half-time. Fantastic work, Adam, 1-1.
The end to end ding-dong continued with Jordan and then Harry coming close. Superb work from Captain Marvel whose long ball into the ball looked likely to be tucked away by Harry. That is, before Thomas came steaming in from nowhere and made a remarkable goal-line clearance to scramble the ball away. So close!
Next it was the Reds’ turn to battle hard in defence as first Alex made a great block and then Jack charged down a goalbound volley. Great teamwork Reds!
Lewis Keenan came off the bench and immediately made an impact with his clever passing and hold-up play to join the Reds’ together. Quality football, Lew!
The tremendous Taylor came on for Harry and the Reds continued to battle for every ball. And a long hopeful ball into the box from the Vipers was unluckily deflected into the net for the Vipers’ second goal, 1-2.
Class move down the left from Joe whose great pass into the feet of James Reed. With his back to goal James let the ball run across him before turning to swivel and hit a great shot just past the post.
Alex continued to be ever alert in goal as the Vipers came more into the match and keep Robert busy. Captain Marvel had been fantastic all game keeping things tight at the back and leading by example.
The ref’s final whistle and the match ended, 1-2. Harsh on the Reds but well done to our mates the Vipers. All the Lads and the coaches can be proud. A fantastic game of footy played between two excellent teams but one club: Monkton Vipers FC.
And without a doubt, just like Wor Cheryl, the Reds have got their mojo back!
Final Score: 1-2
Jimmy’s Man of the Match: Jack the Whizz
Gary’s Man of the Match: Alex the Cat
John’s Man of the Match: Captain Marvel
