There's Nothing Like Leaving It Late

The oppostion were young and fit, but we had noticed already this year that our boys play better against players their own age.

The first half was a fairly even affair, although Puke almost conceded after 45 seconds for the third time this season. After that initial scare, we started to create plenty of chances of our own.

The best chance of the first half fell to Jack who hit the post from a very tight angle after rounding the keeper.

The second half was all Pukekohe, with Three Kings thwarting our many attacks, and counter attacking when possible (which alomost lead to a bizaare goal with minutes remaining, well done to Cameron Hale who cleared it twice in the same movement.)

The Three Kings keeper pulled off some fine saves, including at least 5 one-on-one challenges with Jack. Chances also fell to Scott who had 2 clean headers, Mat B, Wiz, Clive and the list goes on.

With what looked like a nil all draw playing out in front of us, Pukekohe kept creating the chances but struggled to find the net. To say we should have already won by 3 or 4 would be an understatement.

In the last minute (the Ref actually said injury time) Pukekohe were awarded a free kick about 35m out from the Kings goal. The ball was floated over the defence by Wiz, and after everyone watched it bounce, Scott Wilson pounced and poked it into the bottom corner of the net,  for his second goal in successive matches.

It felt as if it would never come and when it did we were jubilant, the poor Three Kings lads who had fought strong for 90+ minutes looked devestated, but thats football. There was only time for them kick off, then for us to steal it and knock it long before the final whistle went.

Player of the day for us went to Karl Straker, who defended with composure and skill, and even had a stint in midfield near the end, which enabled us to win almost every Kings goal kick.

It was a very clean, enjoyable game, which was aided by the fantastic efforts of the young Referee who had a great match.

Onwards and upwards (again...) We'll try not to start another losing streak now.

Next match is away at Ellerslie, 2:45pm Kick off.