With the cold nights firmly making their mark on the season, Sylvain and I were chosen to captain our first fixture of the season against each other. 14 braving the chilly Wednesday meant even sides. I won the toss therefore having first pick.

Teams as per the match page. I figured with Mike being played in his natural Central Defensive position it would be pointless to play a striker looking for the long ball, therefore I set up my team with a 3-3 formation, hoping to hit Sylvain’s Whites on the counter attack. Both captains keeping the club tradition of starting the match as the keepers.

The first half an hour was fairly even, with both teams having their own chances to nab the first goal, I had to gather the ball on two occasions from corners and deflections. Sylvain then switched to an outfield position and I anticipated a more prominent attack as a result. Boy, did that happen! 3 goals in quick succession from the Whites, including a power header from Brian!...Who knew?!

A quick switch of tempo in our play and direct passes, coupled with unwavering determination, my Yellow team didn’t give up and pulled 2 goals back, through Dave O and a fantastic finish by Mark’s cheek. Unfortunately we just fell short of that equaliser (which I think would’ve been a fair result). If only Gary didn’t know how to miss the easiest of tap-ins! 

So 2-3 down its not all over and I still have a chance to put Sylv into the Duffers! 

Thank you to everyone’s efforts, onto the next one!

M.o.m. - Mike, ultimately the reason behind how we set up and bossed his defensive line...Bastard!