Old Boys Slip Up Against Gore

Wednesday the 17th saw Old Boys take on rivals Gore, a mid-week game at the Football Turf. I’m not sure of the reasons for the mid-week games, as this was the second of the season so far, but it is what it is.

Was a fine evening for football and a decent amount of spectators, supporters turned up for both sides to watch the top of the table clash.

After a disappointing Chatham Cup tie on the weekend, coach Reuben was looking for improvement in the hunger of the team – being aggressive and hard in the tackle as Gore certainly would be and we needed to match their physicality. He also asked for us to look to move the ball in wide channels to keep away from the strong centre midfield play that Gore base their game around.

The game started with a bit of to and fro attack for both teams – with no real chances coming for either side until a ball was played through for Cuffy, who was deemed onside, and he was able to get a shot away but unfortunately for us went wide.

Gore then started to dominate a lot of the possession – without creating any real chances, but when we did win the ball we gave away the possession too easily, and as a result didn’t create any attack for ourselves. Some frustration started to sink in as Gore, looking hungrier, won most of the 50/50 contests and started to put us under pressure.

The pressure came to fruition for Gore as an attack down our left flank produced a cross that their striker flicked into the net for a goal. 1 – 0 at the break.

The message at half time from Reuben & Yorkie was to again left the aggression out there and try and muscle up. But we were clearly still well in the close game. A couple of guys were carrying some niggles so changes would be made soon into the half.

After a couple more failed pirouettes, Foz was replaced by Scotty D in centre midfield and then Elliot at left mid for Poppy. B-Clixby followed soon after for Jordan up front.

The intensity of the game went up a couple notches and a few dodgy tackles from both sides drew the attention of Smithy, and free kicks ensued with regularity. Both defences held really strongly and few chances were created.

The game did open up a bit in the final 10 minutes as we pushed for an equaliser – that unfortunately did not come. Final score 1 – 0 to Gore. A shame to lose, but Reuben was happy with the fight and grit we showed in the second half, especially the defensive guys who got through a power of work.

In my opinion it was a way better performance than our previous pre-season game against Gore and we’re certainly were “up” for the game.

Special mention to Mitch Fowler, who was playing his last game for us before moving to the cold wet city 2 hours north. Another strong game in the goal with a couple of great saves shows you will be greatly missed by all the lads Mitch – all the best up the road and we look forward to your continued banter.

Bring on Queens Park at Waverley this weekend!