4-2 Derby Victory!

A grey autumnal day set a dull scene for this needle derby game. But the quality of the play and the commitment shown by the Strikers splashed colour all over the field!  4-2 didn't do the team justice; we could, and should, have scored more. The Falcons received a mauling comparable to the humiliation Manchester United got in the Manchester derby 2 weeks ago.

The Strikers made a flying start with a power strike by first half “defender” Ian who was clearly carrying his form from last week into this game.  That first was swiftly followed up by a neat finish from Carson, who this week was playing in a much more advanced role along with Mitchel.  Two-Nil at half time, nothing more than the Strikers deserved.

Mitchel: a study in gritty determination

At half time some adjustments to the formation were made.  Mitchel and Carson were moved back into defence and George and Ian formed the striking partnership up front; Rob still playing the linking role between the defense at attack!  This soon proved fruitful and the Strikers soon cruised into a 4-0 lead; Ian scoring his (and the team’s) first Hat-Trick of the season.  And what a day to do it on!  Happy Birthday Ian!

But maybe that lead lead to some complacency, or perhaps the team was simply exhausted through all the running and cover play they did.  Hadley, playing in defense (and out of her normal position) for the first half, was immense in her concentration and tackling and Georgia was a clear and present danger on the right wing; her direct game troubled the Falcons all afternoon! Grace and Elena impressed on the left wing where they shared responsibility both in attack and in defense and on many occasions they delayed opposition attacks just long enough for the Strikers defense and midfield to drop back and clear away the danger. And when they did get past, Jack and Charlie were like the proverbial Rock of Gibraltar in Goal and they certainly didn't deserve any blame in the 2 goals the Strikers conceded in the last 10 minutes.  If ever the term “consolation goal” was applicable in a game, it was today for the Falcons!

Scorers:
Ian 3
Carson 1

Champagne Moment: Some sleek second half passing between George, Rob and Georgia in the second half.  Unfortunately a nasty "bobble" deprived Georgia of a what would have been the goal of the game. Kirkwood Parks and Rec' will be given a stern talking to and an explanation for the inconsistent nature of the pitch will be demanded!

Fans Favourite: Charlie. For great, fearless defending that bought us time to regroup; for creative distribution from the back and linking well with the midfield and front players.  Thanks go to Maddie for polling all those die-hard fans who turned out to watch. I hope your foot is recovered for next week.

Next week (at 12.45pm) we will be playing the other Charter School in the league but very sadly I have to go to a meeting which prevents me from attending the game.  I will however be at practice and Coach Dan has kindly offered to fill in for me on Saturday.  Well played today everyone!

"The Gaffer"