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Rob Smallwood
Unicorn Platinum Reporter
United Kingdom
150 Posts |
 Posted - 14/09/2008 : 16:41:19
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Lots of firsts, first game on our new 2G pitch at Beech Fields (grassy & green!) our first game in Division Three, and for 6 of the lads, their first competitive game for Unicorns.
Having struggled to draw with Sale Utd "C" on Thursday no one was under any illusions that this was going to be anything other than a tough game - and so it proved.
The first 10 minutes were fairly even, with both teams fashioning half chances but neither able to take the initiative.
That changed when Sale worked the ball well down the left, and finding himself in enough space to pitch a small caravan park the winger sent in a cross shot that sailed over Luke. (0 - 1  )
The Metros were trying to find their shape, with some players playing in new positions, and a last minute decision to play three at the back with a sweeper in front meaning a change of shape.
They battled on but Sale exerted more pressure and forced an error out of Luke who spilled a cross, and in trying to save the corner knocked the ball back in to play. Even then the Metros had chances to clear but as the ball was knocked back in Mattie was unlucky to turn a header in to his own goal (0 - 2  )
At the other end the Metros were causing trouble, and in particular Alex's pace was causing the Sale back four no end of problems - they were only able to contain him by adopting tactics more at home at Kersal at the other end of the field.
Twice Patrick nearly pulled a goal back from free-kicks, one flashing wide and the second hitting the bar only for Harry to loft the rebound high over the unguarded net.
Despite being two down the Metros were still holding their shape well and pulled a goal back, Calum playing Alex in who moved the ball wide where Mattie beat Oliver to the ball before firing in strongly at the near post. (1 - 2  )
Half time came and went, and the Metros picked up where they had left off, defending well, competing in midfield and causing difficulties up front without really troubling the keeper.
It was the work rate that was most impressive, the lads played for each other, running, chasing and covering, and it was such persistence from Alex that won the ball back for it to fall to Harry who, having had a sighter in the first half made no mistake to level the scores. (2 - 2  )
Sale continued to press though, forcing a lot of corners, but Luke atoned for his earlier error with a fine second half display, handling well and making some good saves. This seemed to galvanise the defence who began to look a tighter unit, with good support from the midfield.
There were probably more free-kicks in this game for pushing than I'd expect in half a season, and whilst the Metros were at times guilty, the significant incident was when a Sale player was caught pushing in the box and the referee pointed to the penalty spot.
Patrick stepped up having adopted the "chief dead ball taker" role, stepped up and fired the ball low to the keepers right - and the referee awarded the goal. The Sale goalkeeper rightly protested that the referee had not blown for the kick to be taken, and was backed up from the touchline - and the referee reversed the decision and the kick had to be re-taken.
What would Patrick do - go the same way, or change his tactics. Under great pressure he coolly slotted the ball back in to the same corner - and this time the goal stood. (3 - 2  ).
The last 10 minutes where tense, Sale repeatedly threw men forward, and their more direct approach revealed some gaps in a tiring Unicorn defence, but through a combination of hard work and a bit of good luck the Metros held out for an opening day victory. (3 - 2  )
There is a long way to go and a lot of hard work to do to turn this squad in to one that compete in this division, but the players today showed that they had the ability, the team work and work ethic that makes this a great foundation on which to build.
Squad: Luke, Patrick, Jonny, Sammy, Robbie, Oliver, Calum, Mattie, Simon, Liam, Alex, Harry, Connor & Tom
Man of the Match: There is a strong claim that this was a team performance, but having sat on the fence last week I'm plumping for Alex for his work rate and two assists.
Champagne Moment: For me Pat keeping his cool with the re-taken penalty.
Referee: Harry Davies - 7/10.
Next game - Sunday 21st September - home to Altincham Juniors 2:00p.m. when we hope to welcome backHash & Joe to the squad.
Training - Thursday 6:00 p.m. Smith's Fields
Rob
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Edited by - Rob Smallwood on 15/09/2008 08:02:48 |
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Metros v Sale Utd "B" 14th September
Posted - 15/09/2008 : 19:53:23
Posted - 16/09/2008 : 20:41:15