Merton 4s v South Bank Cuaco – 15th September 2012

Most of the pre-match talk surrounded Shauno’s recently self-purchased yellow Captains armband and Thommo’s fine system. £1.00 each week just for being bald seemed a bit harsh, but it set the coffers in motion on what was a profitable day for future night outs.

To the game, on another warm afternoon the Merton Strollers (aka 4’s) began their new campaign with a hard fought if not stuttering display, to earn a one nil win and a welcome three points.

With the visitors starting with nine men, it was Merton who started the more slowly, somewhat confused by their two man advantage and unable to keep the ball well enough to create the gaps that were there to exploit. By the time Southbank had made up their full complement of players they had undoubtedly the best chance of the opening fifteen mins, when there big striker just failed to connect to a through ball and Chappell eased him away with a friendly barge!!!

Still somewhat annoyed by the ref’s decision not to award a penalty in their favour Southbank promptly managed to concede one of their own. Merton’s fleet footed player manager Thommo skipped down the right showing a rarely seen turn of pace and was adjudged to havebeen impeded as he scurried into the box. Jessie in turn found just enough time to put down his Samsung Galaxy and slotted home just past the keepers outstretched left arm.

The rest of the half was fairly even, there were a few half chances to either side and Merton probably shaded the possession.

Second half and Merton again started slowly, unable to get to grips with Southbank’s system they had Mark ‘The Cat’ Chappell to thank for keeping their lead as twice he denied Southbank forwards with point blank saves. Merton slowly got back to grips with the game though and in the last half an hour they had more than enough chances to double their lead with Stacey, Kieron and Dan Kelly all going close.

Resolute defending by the back four with Lofty and Tiddy in front saw the game out, with Pearcey even having enough time to go close at the other end with two far post headers in the dying minutes.

Thommo’s post match report in Summary was must do better… A fact not lost on the players, but then again we all do love a 1-0 win…

MOM: Mark Chappell

Team:Chappell, Kieron, Pearcey, Shauno (C), Jessie, Dan K, Tiddy, Lofty, Colin, Thommo, Hailstone – Ian J, Stacey, Doddsy.

Attendence: 8

Report by:Simon White