Hazel Grove United U8s 2 vs 1 Lisbon St Anthony Tigers

We always knew this was going to be a tough game, Lisbon always put out a well organised hard working team with talent. However we were up for it and matched them all the way today.

Both teams began probing and looking to play the final pass, and were trying to create chances. We looked confident and up for the challenge, covering ground and working hard.

There were chances for both teams in the first half, Lisbon having most but not many landed on target.

H.T 0 – 0

The second half began as we left off, it was clear both teams wanted to win it. Then just as we approached the 2nd minute of the second half, the ball was played out left to Finlay who was unmarked, he ran on goal as defenders closed in, but his shot was on target and it was one nil! A great celebration followed…..

We now needed to focus and concentrate, the game was very even, Ben was called upon a few times and was making some good saves. Then on 16 Lisbon finally broke through and grabbed the equaliser.

We didn’t panic and we also showed what we could do, Finley who was playing more central found himself free on goal and didn’t disappoint, in it went from close range to grab the winner.

With 5 minutes remaining, we were put under pressure, but again, nothing really hitting our target, then a Lisbon player was in a good position on the right and fired in a very good strong shot that was destined to hit the roof of our net, but Ben, fully arched had other ideas, he rose and palmed the ball over for a corner, a true match winning save.

The MOM awards were very difficult, especially for the second match, Ben was outstanding in goal but it was felt Joe Gomes just edged it.

Well done to all the lads today!