They knew it was going to be a tough game against Cosmos and this proved to be the case. Against opposition of the calibre of Shane Wye, Robbie Organ, Peter Flood, David Downs, Mark Goodier et al Weekenders hopes rested on a 1 in 100 year deluge of rain. This never eventuated, in fact the day was warm and dry and the pitch was hard and fast. Weekenders are still carrying a few injuries, with Jamie Wilsher, Matt Jefferies and Regan Leslie among the walking wounded. A minutes silence was held after the death of the James' mother during the week. Former Weekender Goalkeeper Matt Stoneman was the referee for the day, and did a pretty good job, although he did miss a few offsides!
Cosmos kicked off and passed the ball well as one would expect. Weekenders kept pace with them well, and caused trouble down Cosmos' right flank on several occassions. Cosmos scored first after they broke in behind the Weekenders right side of defence and put a nice ball through to be tucked in side the net. In fact, this was a sign of the standard of finishing to come. Weekenders kept working hard but soon found themselves 2 down after a lucky, or unlucky, bobble of the ball fell to Robbie Organ who slipped it home. This didnt deter the Weekenders. They actually grew stronger and struck on the break, with a through ball sliding through for Brad Townsend to use his pace and smash it home passed the Cosmos keeper. Cosmos then came back themselves and had several corners which were dealt with well by a young back 4. Half time came with the score at 2-1.
The second half was a much different story. Cosmos completely took over. They had 5 in the midfield, and when you consider Weekenders only really play with 2 midfielders and 2 wingers out wide the numerical advantage soon showed. Weekenders struggled with the Cosmos players movement off the ball and tired badly. In a 20 min period Cosmos scored 6 goals, despite valiant efforts by the keeper Kinnerly, who went against all he stands for and came off his line more than once, the back 4 and a desparing Geoff Smith. One would like to report on all of these goals, but they all melded in to a one horrible memory. The highlight was undoubtedly an amazing volley from Shane Wye. He hit a shot from a corner on the edge of the 18 yard box on the volley. The ball never got above a foot above the ground. It is believed the the ball was in the back of the net before any noise was heard.
Overall Weekenders were shown how the game should be played. We need to remember to stick to our passing early and moving in to space. There were times when this looked good, with the ball being stroked around the back well, but as soon as it moved forward the ball was kicked away. Patience will help. There is no need to try and score every time we have the ball. Work it around, ball to feet and find the space. It will come.
Upcoming Game
v Cosmos Classics 12.30 ground 9
MOM
3 -Peter Kinnerly
2- Mark Allan
1- Scott Allan
Mentioned in Despatches
Kane Thomas, Brad Muirhead, Brad Townsend, Geoff Smith
Results from 5th May
Collegiate 1st XI 0 v Hammers 4
Castlecliff v Braves no result available
Marist Casuals 0 v Marist Celtic 13
Collegiate 2nd XI 1 v City Development 7
Thirstys 1 v Cosmos Classics 4
