With the sun shining and the boys putting 2 wins together for the first time this season, the Porto boys rolled into Morrisville looking to score their first turkey of the season.
As the game got started, it was clear that the field would play a big part in the game as it was more like playing on asphalt (got some american words in there) and really hindered the boys being able to play their style of soccer. With that said, the Porto side started well as they looked to get straight into the game and show the TFC side how they play. In previous games, Porto have been some what slow starters with regards to getting going and working as a team, but not today as the boys were all moving and talking. Porto could have took the lead on several occasions as both Kevin and David all had chances. Porto had most definitely setup camp in the Ajax penalty box for large part of the first half. It was then a shock when the Ajax side got the lead with a break against the Porto team. This didn't hold Porto back as they came back strong and looking for the equaliser. Again several chances went begging as it just seemed like it wouldn't be Porto's day. But, with a corner, Porto equalised. As Cole whipped the ball in, Nicholas managed to get his head onto the ball to notch a well deserved equaliser. With this, the Porto side continued to push and with finally a bit of fortune, they managed to get the lead when Davids shot was spilled and found it's way under the lunging Ajax goalkeeper and allowed the Porto side to go into the half 2-1 in the lead.
At half time, the talk was of continued focus and push as the second half of games were Porto's time to shine
As the game kicked off, Porto were again straight at Ajax looking for that killer goal to hopefully end the Ajax attack. Porto didn't have to wait long as Kevin managed to steer the ball past the opponent goalkeeper to put Porto in a commanding lead. As the half went on, Ajax were not beat and they continued to try and get back in the game. If not for the excellent defending and also alertness of keeper Dani, Ajax could have been back to level terms. With the last minutes of the game coming in, Porto were left with a nervy ending as Ajax managed to get a goal back from a corner. With Coach screaming to keep the ball in the corners of the Ajax half and to stop the Ajax energy getting back into the Porto box, Ajax had one last attack with seconds to go they got a corner.. With everyone back the corner wasn't as accurate as the one that led to the goal and with the clearance, came the final whistle. FT 3-2
Coaches Corner
Out of the three league wins, this was the one I was most proud of. On all fronts, Porto showed what they have been learning in training and why they are getting the rewards on the field. In attack, they carved plenty of opportunities and looked dangerous on the counter attack. In defence, they looked as strong as ever and won majority of tackles. Finally came the part when they needed to dig in and be strong. When the heat was on in the final seconds of the game, the boys all did their part and were strong the question to whether they could stand firm and get the victory. As always, I'm so proud of the boys progress and attitude in the games and long may it continue.
