St Albans mixed ( Team Shambles) once more stepped into the breach for the first round of the mixed cup. A grey, overcast day welcomed a young team from Milton Keynes at Fortress Oaklands. St Albans fielded a strong side, with a few notable ( old) additions. We were quickly underway, and one of the new ( old) additions quickly demonstrated their laser beam passing technique by picking out the MK centre forward. A few touches later, and a sublime reverse stick strike clattered the back board, passing a bemused Galoot. ( Great pass Rick) 1 - 0 MK
The home side clearly had a game on their hands. MK looked to play through the middle with their strongest players, with St Albans looking to move the ball around. Ossie had soon injured himself while attempting some top tumbling during a side line hit ( His own). This resulted in a large ice pack and a retirement from the match. Gremlin worked tirelessly in the Midfield, linking up well with the young speedster Tyler. :-)
The back line held up well, with Kat putting in a cool performance, denying a young and skilful MK forward line.
St Albans got back in the game with a laser beam strike form Mobbs which almost dislodged the back board. MK responded with chances of their own, with a sober Galoot denying the away team. Good link up play between Lottie and Lexi ( 3 game weekend!) down the left put MK under pressure, with Geake picking out some great passes to our midfield. A flurry of greens for both sides added to the tension.
With 20 minutes to go, another lightening short corner strike from Mobbs gave the Tangerines the lead. Stoic defending from Bastock, Rick and Lucy continued to deny MK as they looked for the equaliser. Lucy managing to get the ball effortlessly out of the corner, even when surrounded by 3 opponents.
With time running out, JP had the chance to put the icing on the cake with a one on one opportunity. With the MK keeper refusing to move forward, JP took his anger out on the post, which rejected his shot. The final whistle denied MK a last gasp chance to level the match, and Team Shambles march on to the next round. Well done all, and thanks to MK for a great game.
( Remember, never let the truth get in the way of a good match report.)