Well, after 10 hard fought games.. After three months of battling and logistical shuffling around the Carolina weather, we finally arrived at our final game with the sun shining and against local rivals CSL Reds.
After last nights bitter defeat to TFC Sting, Porto needed to regroup and be ready for the challenge that CSL would pose. With this being Porto's third game in 4 days and CSL having been rested all week, the pace of CSL would be fully charged.
Coach started the game in a formation that has been used to see tight games out, but offered stability especially against quicker players and gave Porto confidence that the pace element of CSL would be kept quiet. During the first half, it was Porto that carved the most chances with Remi and Max both going close on several occasion’s but with shots and crosses just flashing wide, it was encouraging. CSL did show that their pace could be an issue if unattended and with a fortunate bounce over the defence CSL were through, but the wind and slope came to Porto's rescue as the ball carried through to Dani in goal, who was a spectator for large parts. The punt and chase tactic of CSL was not going to work as the Porto boys were more than ready for that, but Porto did at times just struggle to turn possession into speedy attacks as the red of CSL were just that little bit quicker to get back and prevent the break aways. Again, this can be attributed to Porto having played three games in four days HT 0-0
The second half was again very much a settled affair with neither team really imposing their authority. Coach changed Porto's formation back to the familiar 3-2-2 that had served them well for the majority of the year, but that lack of sharpness and energy just failed the boys when they needed it in key areas. CSL did threaten on several occasion’s, but it was only going to be through set pieces or free kicks that they would unlock the Porto back line as they were determined to hold on to at least their BEST DEFENCE OF THE YEAR 2013 in the league. As the game clock ticked down, both sides got bogged into the middle of the park and with the morning sun starting to rise, the referee finally blew his whistle and brought and end to Porto's 2013 and Under 11's campaign. FT 0-0
MVP
Todays MVP goes to team skipper Nicholas who's leading of the back line today and for the entire season was exemplary. Calmness and a focused approach ensured Porto came out of the season with the best defensive record in the division. Well Done Nicholas!
