In a tale of two halves, The Ressies started the game like they’d just got out of bed and found themselves a goal behind very early on. As the half wore on, the sense of urgency never came and Turnpike Pirates took full advantage, putting a further 3 goals past the OTA defence. In truth, the goals conceded were as the opponents waltzed through the lads at will. Towards the end of the half, a formation change to the old favourite 4-4-2 helped gain a foothold in the game.
After some soul searching at half time, the boys stepped on to the pitch with intent and took the game to the opponents from the get-go. Murphy won a penalty not long after and took the kick himself, which he converted only after slotting in the rebound. With the team in the ascendancy, OTA’s goalscorer was sent off, making a possible comeback, that much harder. Despite the setback, The Otters continued to press the issue and Acquah won another penalty and being brought down unceremoniously in the area. Like Murphy, he took his own spot kick which was saved (and held) by the ‘keeper this time.
Undeterred, the team (led by MOTM Acquah – Pictured) remained in the ascendancy and a lovely reverse through ball by Dusabe was dispatched by the onrushing Acquah to make it 4-2. An unfortunate own goal by Husein saw the away side restore their 3 goal lead before Dusabe well-struck penalty completed the scoring. The match ending in a 5-3 defeat – A much better 2nd half performance with 10 men!