Match Report – 14.1 – Game Date: 05/08/2017

BMFC 14.1: 1
vs
Penrith Rovers FC: 1

BMFC Goal Scorers: Ethan

Player of the Match: James

Match Report: First v second in the last game of the regular season. A win or a draw to win the league, conversely a loss would mean runners up on goal difference – the last option would be so cruel

The week’s preparation was not ideal with both training sessions cancelled due to Oval closure. A couple of players went down with man flu, so Caleb was asked to help the team out for the 3rd and final time this season. Eli came good Saturday morning so was able to take his usual spot between the sticks

We had a good chat before the game which helped calm the nerves and make sure everyone was clear on a pretty simple game plan

The first half was a tight affair, with a blustery wind across the pitch having an effect on the game. Our defence was solid as always, Damo then Caleb slotting into left back. Midfield concentrated on marking as this is where Rovers strength is – Ash, Jake, Max and Dom all superb. Up front Ethan was making a nuisance of himself & James down the right was having a blinder – dropping back into midfield to help out and then beating players and creating havoc, linking up with Ethan

Half time team talk was calm as we felt we were largely controlling the game

The second half was action packed to say the least! Ten minutes in, Damo played a well weighted pass in behind for Ethan to run onto and calmly slot past the keeper into the corner. Two minutes later and a ball into our box saw a dubious penalty given as no contact appeared to be made. Eli made a fine save diving low to his left but the penalty taker was the first to react and knock the rebound in

The agricultural tackles started to fly in from Rovers and coupled with some blue language saw three yellow cards produced. Ethan got in behind again and was brought down in the box – the offender lucky to stay on the pitch as he already had a yellow and was the last defender. Aidy hit the penalty well but too close to the keeper and the rebound was scrambled to safety

The last ten was tense – a couple of long range efforts were tipped onto the bar by Eli and cleared by the defence. The final whistle came and the large Blueys supporters cheered – Champions!

Parents player of the week to James – was an absolute handful in the first half, working back and getting forward

Wonderful season – a great set of boys that have gelled beautifully into a really good football team and improved every week