The MPA team approached our match against Greensborough with the knowledge that another week without a win would really hurt our chances of staying in the top four.  Shannon repeated the team goals before the game and reminded us how we gifted our opposition a draw in the dying minutes of our last meeting.  It was a big match day for the club, we had plenty to play for both on and off the field, and we wanted to get the day started with a strong win.

Greensborough made a fast start and we found ourselves under pressure straight away.  We seemed to be evenly matched however and although we spent the early part of the match in defence, we also managed to make our own attacking moves and put passes together.  Greensborough took the lead with the first goal for the day, but there was still plenty of time left in the game.  That appeared to be the incentive we needed to really work hard and we took control for the rest of the half.  Luke presented plenty of options through the midfield with assistance from Joey and Mitch.  Dan took it upon himself to run the ball out of defence and while Greensborough watched he took it right into the attacking circle for our first goal.  A short corner hit from Paul clipped the keeper’s pads into the net and after the umpire’s deliberation (which took forever) we were 2-1 up and had momentum.  Greensborough did have their share of attacking chances, but Ed was making good saves and Ant and Tom Hamilton were solid at the back.

At half time we were 3-1 up (once again I’ve forgotten the goal scorers), Mitch and Shannon reiterated our game plan and we knew that only half the job was done.  It was in the second half that the game really opened up for us.  The forwards showed intent in front of goals that had been lost to us for a few weeks and the defence kept Greensborough out of the game.  Ed was making great saves and we began to dominate the opposition across the field.  Our pressure forced Greensborough to make turnovers and soon we had taken a 5-1 lead and looked to have it won.  One slip up defensively gave them a second goal with 5 minutes to go, however we struck back to make it 6-2 and seal the win.

It was a very satisfying result for the team and great to get the win when we really needed it.

Apologies to you forwards for not knowing who scored all the goals.  Anyway, I can’t be expected to remember every little part of the game.  Did anyone count how many tackles I laid?

Davo