| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| darrens |
Posted - 09/09/2007 : 19:44:46
After what has been a hectic few weeks behind the scenes it was nice to get the footie underway - the opening match of the season a short trip away at the Cougars thrown up by the League's computer to whet our appetite.
With a depleted squad of 12 our plans were rocked only an hour or so before kick off when a call from Rochdale FC's physio's room informed us that JP had injured his foot in a trialist match so it was a bare 11 that went in search of bragging rights at secondary schools across the borough tomorrow!
Our new formation of 3-5-2 seemed to be doing the trick as we started the stronger team - working hard and trying to get our football going keeping Alex P and his defence on their toes. As it was the Cougars took the lead somewhat against the run of play when Alex C bundled the ball home at the second attempt.
The Panthers, though, stepped up a gear and great determination from Elliott saw a lofted cross back across the goal headed in by Evo to bring us level at half time.
Worries that we may not be able to keep up the pace were unfounded as the Panthers put on a second half display as good as I can remember. Effort, communication, tough tackling, brilliant passing and team play saw us take the lead after a move which started one one side of the pitch, passed between us to the other side and then back again resulting in a cross into the area met by a late run from Ben gave us a deserved lead which was quickly extended with a cracker from Ben again from outside the box.
From the kick off however a great run and chip from Thomas was turned in to make it 2-3.
The Panthers' team spirit was again evident as to a man they kept their heads up rewarded with a second goal for Evo as pressure on the Cougars' defence created a mistake which he tucked away.
Speighty concentrated throughout and was quick off his line to sweep up a couple of breakways whilst Mitchell, George and Bysie were solid, covering for each other and venturing forward when the opportunity arose.
Sam T and Philip (returning from his long lay off) were instrumental in starting many attacks and giving us options out wide whilst our central midfield three of Elliott, skipper Ben and Sam S must be amongst the best in the league (I sound biased but I've just watched them!) as they won almost everything in the middle and allowed our two strikers, Ally (who is getting better and better every time I see him) and Evo to create chances - man of the match Evo rounding off the scoring after another sweeping move to complete his brilliant hat-trick and pick up the points (and a scoring bonus off his mum and dad!).
A brilliant team display mixed with effort and no little skill will hopefully auger well for the season but we are desperate to strengthen our squad so if anyone knows anyone who fancies a go please let us know!
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