In a thrilling league encounter at Seddon Fields on 21 September 2024, Uni Mount Flying Circus showcased their attacking prowess, defeating the Western Springs Steamboats with a scoreline of 6-3. The match kicked off at 1:00 PM, with the home side putting on a dominant display that left the visitors struggling to keep pace.
Uni Mount Flying Circus lined up in a traditional 4-4-2 formation, a setup often favoured for its balance and attacking potential. With Pete McGlashen between the sticks, the defence was anchored by two central defenders, Kevin Carlisle and Simon Paston, flanked by right defender Philip Moore and left defender Neil Spencer. In midfield, the right side was patrolled by Liam Gunson, while Keith Pugh occupied the left, with Andy Paston and Alan Russell providing central stability. Up front, a partnership developed between Mp Matthews on the right and Andy Marsh on the left, both tasked with applying pressure on the opponents’ defence and converting opportunities.
The bench for Uni Mount Flying Circus included Jerome Deperrois, John Varela, and Colin Margison, providing options for tactical adjustments as the match progressed.
The early proceedings were reflective of the formation employed, with Uni Mount Flying Circus exerting control over the midfield, leading to a frantic moment on 27 minutes when the Western Springs Steamboats contributed an own goal during a goalmouth scramble, allowing the home side to take a surprising lead.
As the first half progressed, the match saw a flurry of substitutions as Philip Moore, Andy Marsh, and Mp Matthews were replaced by Jerome Deperrois, John Varela, and Colin Margison, respectively, in the 35th minute. Despite the changes, Uni Mount continued to threaten and extended their lead just before half-time. On the 41st minute, Keith Pugh found the net with a composed finish inside the box, a result of a slick short pass from new substitute John Varela.
However, the Steamboats managed to pull one back moments later in the 43rd minute, reigniting hopes for a comeback as the first half ended with a score of 2-1.
The second half commenced with Flying Circus making wholesale changes to the lineup. This seemed to confuse the opposition and re-energise FC in equal measure and on 58 minutes, Philip Moore marked his return with a goal, converting a clinical right-foot finish inside the box after a well-timed assist from Liam Gunson. This was followed by a sublime effort from Keith Pugh on the hour mark, who unleashed a stunning left-footed strike from outside the area, further extending Uni Mount's lead.
Philip Moore was not finished yet; he struck again in the 74th minute, showcasing good team play with another goal, assisted by Gunson, even as tension mounted for the Steamboats. Liam Gunson capped off a fantastic afternoon with a well-timed finish on 81 minutes from an assist by Philip Moore, pushing the score to an impressive 6-1.
However, the Western Springs Steamboats refused to go down quietly, scoring two late goals in the 86th and 89th minutes, reducing the deficit but falling short of a much-needed comeback as the final whistle blew, confirming a 6-3 victory for Uni Mount Flying Circus.
The referee, Tony Westmoreland, officiated the match effectively, ensuring the contest remained competitive and fair throughout. Ultimately, Keith Pugh stood out as the player of the match, playing a pivotal role in his side’s victory with his scoring abilities and creativity on the ball.
