Samba boys stutter in stalemate at Springs…

The cold wind whipped angrily across Walker Park as we huddled next to the lonely changing block. Not only did the weather look ominous for the game ahead, but the sight of a full strength Western Springs side warming up with some borderline o35’s did little for our confidence.

However, we took the field with TD refereeing the first half, one sub and against the wind. Springs came at us very quickly, as strong as the wind and playing pretty much through our midfield. Wave after wave of wind, rain and Springs forwards threatened our goal. However, little was getting through a solid back four and Springs were limited to shots from outside the 18 yard. What was encouraging was to see the Springs foreign imports trying to do Maradonna impressions every time they got the ball. It was nice to hear the opposition say “they never pass the ball”, also nice to see they couldn’t get past the twin rocks of Roy and Pete T. On the odd occasions they did get through the intimidating presence of John Mac in goal put them off or they just stopped and shouted at each other.

We were struggling to get any rhythm, but when we did we opened gaps behind their full backs with John M, Marty M and Steve A combining very nicely. Graham persisted up front with some nice touches, Ants and Marty grafted in midfield, and Pete C raided forward on occasions. We only managed two corners and one fine attempt on goal from Pete C. The best efforts were going to Springs with John Mac pulling off a couple of fine saves (watch out Buffon!).

We battled well to 0.0 at halftime and with the wind; we saw our opportunity in the second half. We started to create more opportunities with Steve A working well down the right flank, Pete C persisting down the left and John M holding the ball up well. We pushed for a couple of corners, Graham had a couple of half chances and Ant C tested the keeper with a long range effort. However, solid defending was still needed with Daryl, TD, Roy, Mike and Coxy holding firm.

As the game wore on, legs began to tire and the game started to stretch. The Springs foreign boys were getting space in midfield and tested John Mac a few times, one which John saved onto the bar and one which crashed against the bar. Springs were getting closer. Steve asked “where are those lads from?”. “Brazil or Portugal I think” came the reply.

The game was drawing to a close and neither side could break the deadlock. Tension and frustration started to creep in. Then on 84 minutes one of the Springs foreign boys burst into the box and raced between Mike and Coxy, then went to ground! As Mike and Coxy looked on, working out their scores for artistic impression at the Walker Park Diving competition, the ref pointed to the spot.” Now I know he’s from Brazil!” shouted Coxy dismayed at the penalty award. We braced ourselves for the spot kick, up stepped the Brazilian and fired his shot straight at John Mac. John pulled out another top drawer save to keep us alive and the game soon petered out in the last few minutes.

No Samba this week, but more like watching the samba. Despite this a point was a fair call and a good result. Some fine performances across the pitch. Roy, Pete T, Daryl, TD and Mike in defence. Steve A had a great game with consistent work on the right flank and creating opportunities, however, player of the day honours to John Mac in goal.

Thank you to Springs for their hospitality and the game which was played in good spirit. Thank you to TD for refereeing and to our support.
Next game – home to Tuakau Taverners 1pm ko