Game 2: Penguins vs ‘Unknowns’

Score: Penguins 2-5 Unknowns

Goals: Glenn, Darryl

Match report by: Glenn

The final scoreline may have read as a 5-2 defeat, but I don’t think this is a fair reflection on the game. We played really well in parts, especially the first 20mins where we had about 3 or 4 really good chances. Our shape was great and we played some good short passing stuff. Our start got its due reward when Glenn waltzed through their defence and slotted calmly past the keeper to put us 1-0 up. A counter-attack and penalty equalizer for them was a bitter blow, just when we were controlling the game, and their second right at the end of the first half knocked the stuffing out of us somewhat.

Obviously, it got even tougher in the second half with both Jonathan and Owain having to leave early, and Maxim being forced off with an ankle injury. We still battled bravely though (as epitomized by Skipper Ben’s yellow card) and got what we deserved with Darryl’s 30 yard screamer early in the half to draw things level. Had luck gone our way we could have gone on to grab the win but, unfortunately, the goalframe conspired to deny us on several occasions, as did the opposition goalie when clawing out another 35 yard free-kick from Darryl. Ultimately, though, they proved more clinical in the final third, adding 3 more unanswered goals as the game drew to a close.

It’s also worth keeping in mind that the opposition seemed a really strong young and mobile side, so for us to give them such a battle in only our second game was admirable.