With the season drawing to an end and the weather threatening to ruin Porto's run in and finish with a complete fixture list completed, we eventually did manage to get the elusive TU Porto v TU Man Utd underway and rocking over at Southern Village.. Oh and also TFC tried to ruin the fixture by being complete idiots when coming to helping logistical issues.
Well eventually the game got underway and it seemed like the evening curse would strike Porto again as they were somewhat slow to get going and get their passing game going and some players were having off days. However, there was enough on show to suggest Porto would get through the half as the well lined defence of Porto managed to holt the punt and chase tactics of TU Man Utd and neutralize the attacking threat of #24 It was Porto that was to strike first after a sustained period of pressure and several good chances that eventually saw MVP Cole spring loose and notch the first of the game. A freak second was not long in the waiting when a corner from Max was diverted into it's own net and then out of the side net for the second, but left both coaches a little confused as to whether it was a goal. The linesman said yes and so Porto took a quick 2-0 lead. As with many 2-0 leads that Porto have found themselves in, they just couldn't get that all important third that would make the game comfortable and despite excellent work from Cole, Kevin, Matty and Max to name but a few, the ball was just not finding it's way in to the net before the half. HT 2-0
At the half, coach was quick to praise, but wanted the boys aware of the threat that Man Utd posed especially with the through pass and the lob pass.
As the half got underway, the dark clouds were rolling over the hills and it started to look very gloomy and a distant rumble was heard. Porto though were holding firm, but Man Utd were banging very hard on the Porto door trying to get back in the game. Despite some very good play from Man Utd, Porto were somehow hanging in, even if they were on the ropes for a very long period. Man Utd did get back in when a free kick tamely went past Dani, who had been in flawless mood all game (so we shall allow him that moment) For the remaining 20 minutes, it was a case of all hands to the deck and a need for the back four to do a very long stint in front of the Alamo as wave after wave of Man Utd pressure came their way. With the ref ceasing play with 8 mins to go, it was looking doubtful that the game would be finished by rainout, but both coaches concurred and play recommenced. Porto was not being let off the ropes and in boxing terms, they were being hit with everything that Man Utd had to offer them. Eventually though, the over commitment of Man Utd was to be their downfall as a clearance from Porto sprung Kevin loose down the left and a exceptionally timed cross to Matty allowed Matty to calmly place the ball home to seal the win. FT 3-1
MVP SPECIAL
I normally single out individuals for praise and in taking tonights MVP, Cole does deserve a whole section to himself for his work rate and drive, especially when covering virtually every blade of grass on the pitch, but I want to make special mention to the four defenders in the shape of Bennie, Kai, Andy and Nick who for virtually the entire game held the fort. Not to mention when the need required of him, Dani who has grown to be a monster between the sticks and saved Porto again on many occassions this evening. The fantastic five were a committed unit and had each others backs when they were needed the most!! Well Done Gents, Well Done!!
