Match Report 12.5 – 2 May, 2004

Match report:
Blue Mountains had most possession and attacks but this produced only one goal by Brenton. The skilful Penrith forwards scored twice on the break despite good saves by James to give them a narrow victory against the run of play.

The first half saw Blue Mountains attacking most of the time, with Mitchell H, Corey, Steven and Liam winning the ball in midfield and penetrating the Penrith defence with their runs forward. Forwards Nathaniel and Brenton put the Penrith defence under further pressure and went close with several shots and forced a succession of corners. Midway through the first half, Steven crossed from the right and Brenton’s shot left the goalkeeper no chance.

In defence, Mitchell C, Ben, Michael and Ferret were able to stifle most attacks. However, the fast Penrith forwards were very dangerous on the break and James had to make a brave run out of goal to win the ball on the edge of the penalty area. Not long before half time, however, they equalised from another break, the final shot giving James no chance. The teams went in at half time one goal each.

The second half continued the same pattern with Blue Mountains having most of the possession but Penrith dangerous on the break. Michael moved into attack and had two shots well saved in one spell where Blue Mountains forced 3 corners in succession. But shortly after this the fast Penrith forwards broke through and scored, again giving James no chance. The rest of the game saw virtually constant Blue Mountains pressure. Corey, Brenton, Michael Steven and Mitchell C all had shots saved or go just wide. At the other end, Penrith continued to threaten on the break and James was able to make a great diving save against a close range shot and bravely ran out to cover a further breakaway.

Goal Scorers: Brenton Bell

Player of the Match: James Beech