Pagewood 2s 1 - 0 Maroubra

Maroubra fail to make superiority pay

A 9am kickoff wasn't about to put off this dedicated bunch with close to the full squad in attendance by 8:40am.
From the off we were in control with Steve, Yoshi and Keith completely dominating the midfield, expertly flanked by Terry and John. We forced multiple corners in the first few minutes but failed to put any away. It only seemed a matter of time before something hit the back of the net with Tom getting the better of his markers. Pagewood were only making the odd foray into the Green half, most of which were easily neutralised by the Maroubra defence and anything that did get through was easily dealt with by Karl.
For all the possession, we created few clear cut chances and snatched at any that came our way so somehow we went to the break at nil all.
There wasn't much to be said apart from keep our shape and keep things going.
Pagewood introduced some of their 45s to give their weary players a break and they came more into the game.
The game was still evenly poised with 20 minutes of the second half gone when their striker was put through but was still a long way out, Rob raced back and attempted to intercept with a diving tackle which clipped the player, taking him down. As he was the last man and it was a goal scoring opportunity, the Ref followed the letter of the law and gave the red card with both sides surprised as all expected the yellow.
Maroubra regrouped, refreshened the ranks and boldly continued to hold out, even creating chances and winning corners.
With about 10 minutes left, Pagewood put together a good passing move, working the ball forward quickly to their striker on the edge of the box who took a touch and slotted in the corner, out of Karl's reach.
But it wasn't over yet, with 2 minutes to go, The Green Machine won another corner and the now weary bodies piled forward in search of redemption. The ball was expertly delivered into the six yard box and with Pagewood failing to clear, the ball broke towards the Maroubra no. 9 who managed to get a shot away but it somehow went the wrong side of the post.
The gallant greens continued to give everything but unfortunately the clock soon ran out.

Team:
Karl, Frank, Pete, Rod, Francis, Steve, Terry, Yoshi, John, Keith, Tom,

Interchange:
Leo, Dennis,Jason, George, Kevin,Nap

Out: Nelson, Jimmy, Justin, Selim