Saturday 10th May v FC Bulleen Lions
With the expectation this week of a tougher encounter against traditional rivals FC Bulleen Lions, the Rovers began almost as they finished last week’s game. Immediately into attack and adhering to the coach’s instructions dutifully. Strategically superior with the game plan clearly in place to control the midfield, the boys used the full width of the pitch playing the ball skilfully out wide and pressuring forward as a cohesive unit.
Relentlessly the crosses came into the middle from both left and right wings. Anthony showed his true class on the right with his rocket like passes into the middle and some magical direct shots on goal. From the left, Christos again was his elusive best, dribbling past the oncoming Bulleen defenders. The pressure was ominous from Ryan and Joshua who showed indelible strength and commitment. An opposing defence packed with 9 defenders may on occasions have seemed impenetrable, but the never say die spirit of the Rovers would surely prevail. And so it did, on the 10 minute mark of the first half, a series of precision passes ensued, with Spyros positioning himself perfectly to receive and effortlessly slot home the opening goal.
The second was to follow not long after, with a bullet like shot from Joshua into the top right corner. At this point Bulleen seemed to find a renewed energy and emerged with their first attack of the game. The impenetrable Rovers defence of Michael and Aaron held firm, not content to merely repel the attack, but managed to pass the ball forward maintaining possession reminiscent of the beautiful game. A typically meandering solo run from Dion produced the exquisite third goal of the game. And thus ended the first half at 3 – 0.
The second half produced similar results and the coach used his rotations perfectly to keep the players fresh and constantly hungry for the ball. Cheyne was once again a powerhouse dynamite, relentlessly winning possession in the midfield. Alex in goals was not called upon often, but on the rare Bulleen attack, showed why he is all class and technical expertise by rushing forward to narrow the angle and circumvent any danger. Noobar showed that he has lost none of his touch and toughness on his first game back for the season. The silky skills of Alexandre were once again apparent and a class above the opposition, brilliantly slotting home the last goal of the match, but not before Michael and Spyros put the ball in the back of the net earlier.
The final result of 6 – 0 was definitely indicative of the nature of the play but also could so easily have been many more with many great opportunities created by the boys. Special thanks to Paul (Alex’s dad) for his excellent control and adjudication as referee.
Maintaining a clean score sheet for the second week in a row, the boys efforts have been exceptional. Well done to all the boys and the coach.
Next week we meet Whitehorse away at Terrara Park with a 10am kick-off.
Train Hard, Play Fair & Have Fun
