Well, if we retain........ sorry WHEN we retain our league title this season, we will look back on today's match and realise that today was the day that made the difference.
The first half today was all Greystone - and deservedly so. They were first to every ball, they had pace and aggression, and they just wanted it much more than any of our players did.
We came in at half time one nil down, the result of a lack of communication in defence, followed by a super finish from out wide by a Greystone striker.
It was obvious that what was needed was quite simple : 100% more will to win and aggression. It was Mr Cooper who provided the inspiration. Having noticed that the referee was happy to let the game be the physical game that it should be, he let the team know quite clearly what was needed to turn the game around.
And so out we went for the second half and what a change! Suddenly AFC TPS wanted every ball, made every challenge, passed with precision and moved with pace. The game remained tight and it took a trademark surge from captain Daniel to provide the equaliser. His shot from the right was turned into the net by a Greystone defender for a very unfortunate own goal. As Daniel was the last AFC TPS player to touch the ball, the goal goes to him.
With the scores level, AFC TPS knew the time to go for the winner was now. Within a minute of the kick off, Harry, excelling in his new left wing position had won a free kick 25 yards from goal. Harry picked himself up, and thinking quicker than anyone on the pitch - or than any of the chipmunks or chipettes on the sidelines - hammered an unstoppable shot past the 'keeper to give his team the lead. The precision and skill required for this goal - 25 yards out, into 7 a side nets against a giant 'keeper - makes it our goal of the season so far.
Now in the lead, AFC TPS kept the pressure on, but still had to survive a few scares in defence, before they recorded their 3rd 11 a side league victory out of 3 this season.
Aaron had another excellent game in defence, yelling encouragement at his team mates - and letting then know when he wasn't happy with them! Exactly what we need from the whole squad. Daniel gave his usual captain's performance and both Peters showed in the second half the kind of performances that are expected at all times. But player of the match has to go to Harry for such a brilliant - and vital - goal. And yes Harry, there is a match next Friday!
Here's the stats..... (still can't find the 5 a side results - email me if you can remember!)
Antrim Area Primary Schools' 11 a side league
P3 W3 D0 L0 F12 A2 Pts 9
Ballyclare & District Principals' Association 7 a side Football League
P1 W1 D0 L0 F4 A 0 Pts 3
Overall
P4 W4 D0 Lo F16 A2 Pts 12
Goalscorers
Johnston 5
Daniel 5
Harry 4
Graeme 1
Oliver 1
Player of the match
Aaron 1
Graeme1
Harry 1
Jake 1
Onwards and upwards!
Mr Alcorn
director of football
AFC TPS
1 comment:
Read the above with interest, as this is my first full season in charge, to gauge an opposition coach's opinion on Greystone's form.
Can't really argue with most of this report, we were in control for most of the game but 2 goals in such a short period of the 2nd half turned this game on its head. We almost equalised very late on but for a glorious chance to put over the bar which if scored, in my opinion, would have given a fairer scoreline.
Thanks to everyone, players and staff, of TPS for a giving Greystone a good game played in the right spirit!
Good luck for the remainder of your season. (See you next year...)
Michael Sloan (Greystone Coach)
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