De La Salle4
Seven Hills AFC1
League action returns this week, for the third game of the season and the rematch of Seven Hills and top of the table De La Salle.
Seven Hills started the game strongly, with some good attacking intent with wing play developing some promising threats. First corner to Seven Hills and Liam runs across the box to flick on for Paddy to nod home. 1-0 and a deserved advantage to Seven Hills.
De La Salle started to get into the game a little more, with long balls to their #8 and #9 who were both being dominant in the air. A quick play down their right and a lapse in concentration following a throwin allowed De La Salle to score a quick easy goal.
With the score at 1-1, Taylor was dropped back from an advanced role and into a defensive mid to try and offer some additional support in his first game back following a long injury break. But a long ball over the top and a strong challenge from Gav resulted in De La Salle's #12 going down in the box - a penalty to De La Salle. There were questions whether it was in the box, whether the ball was won and whether there was any contact, but it was hard to argue with the decision in the end.
Up stepped De La Salle's #12… And the first spot kick attempt was ruled out for encroachment in the box by several De La Salle players, but the retake was scored to make it De La Salle 2 Seven Hills 1.
De La Salle continued now to take more advantage of the game, with their #12 making good runs down the side, but Seven Hills defense stood first making good interceptions and challenges. Unfortunately the game would be paused for De La Salle's #12 to be cautioned for unsportsmanlike behaviour following frequent "simulation" events.
Forced changes were made with Taylor and JR being subbed through fatigue and injury respectively and Lewi and Alex marking their returns.
Half Time 2-1 to De La Salle.
Seven Hills started the second half well, with some strong play in the middle from Lewi developing advanced play… but chances were still few and far between. And this is how the game would play out until the last few minutes. Seven Hills continuing to press forward looking for an equaliser which could be well argued to be deserved… only to see De La Salle capitalise with two further quick goals from their #12 from counter attacks.
Final score a somewhat flattering 4-1 to De La Salle.
MOM: Lewi Sainsbury
Runner Up: Alex Goodchild
Goal: Paddy Wilson