Tragic finish. We deserved to take the points today.
With Turruwul closed, the game was moved to Coral Sea. We had a reduced squad with a few people away and with Russell and Daz out injured. Rod and Yoshi made themselves available eventhough both were still carrying knocks.The squad got there early allowing a solid warmup and we started the game at a great pace, taking control.
Our front trio of Luke/Neil/Selim combined well throughout the first half, creating numerous chances and of course the first goal.
We managed to hold out until half time with the defense playing well and limiting any clear cut opportunities with Francis and Philippe both excelling.
Unfortunately Neil couldn't return after the break so Rod put down the zimer-frame and hobbled on in his place. While we started the half reasonably well, Redfern got a lucky break when a cross come shot went in off the back post.
At this stage Redfern thought the game was theirs and assumed they would go on to get a few more but the defense held firm and our midfield worked hard to close down space.
Midway through the half Jimmy surged forward through the middle with the ball, leaving the defense a little worried about the space he was leaving behind him, but never fear, he laid it into Luke's path who crossed it into the middle for the onrushing Selim to flick into the top corner with a classic headed finish.
In response Redfern subbed half their team, even taking off their talismatic striker but we continued to work hard for each other with every man giving his all for the cause. Leo must have managed at least 20 minutes!
With the clock running down and only minutes left (Dennis' watch was saying time was up but I think he bought it at Paddy markets), one of their fresher midfielders made a burst through the middle and executed a perfect chip-shot from 25 yards that Karl could do nothing about 2-2
They even managed to create another chance before the final whistle but fortunately their striker put it the wrong side of the post but it was so close...
We were fantastic for long periods. The training and getting there early is really catching our opponents and we looked very good for the first 30 minutes. Our 2 goals were great team goals and the finishes were Division 1 quality, really magnificent.
That was the first goals Redfern have conceded this year. We fell short by 45 seconds from taking the 3 points. There were some tired legs but we defended like Spartans and attacked like Panthers on the counter.
Rod got some needed game time and got into it when they tired. In fact, everyone played more than normal
2 years ago if you remember Redfern used to have a bit of a laugh at our expense and just thought they would turn up for the points. This year we have given them the fright of their season so far. They won the GF last year, so we now have a good yardstick of where we are at.
Even though we were playing at home, the odds were stacked against us - Rod and Yoshi playing on 1 leg each for most of the game, Neil injured just before half time so the boys really dug in deep for that second half which was enjoyable to play in (with the exception of the last 5 minutes). And let’s not forget the foul on Luke – he was in the box, it was a penalty but he rolled outside so a free kick was given instead!
Onwards and upwards boys - see you all Wednesday!
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