Nerves of Steel Needed as Guantanamo Go Down

24/7/08

Racing Guantanamo went into the match with a bare-bones squad last night, but it did not stop them from almost upsetting their opponents NDFC who have been highly-fancied to take the B-Liga title this season.

The match began in unusual circumstances as an error in the fixtures saw Guantanamo take on the team they had played only 2 rounds earlier.

The Mighty Oranges went into the match minus Jorge Pereira, Joel Hamling, Matt Reen, Greg Blackmore and Ben Walker, all of who had been called up on international duty. However, the team welcomed back the highly experienced Irishman Joe Tighe, and Scotsman Adam Shanley who had returned from a 6 week stint in Myanmar, while the team signed youngster Tom Offer from Pearl Coast Pirates on a week-long loan. Guantanamo vice-captain Tim Gray was also included in the squad after spending the first four rounds of the season out injured.

Despite the incoming players, the side were not able to field any subs leading to looks of concern from the Guantanamo bench.

The match began with an explosive Guantanamo side quickly taking control of the game and harrying the NDFC defence. Luke Turner again shone for the Oranges, using his pace to bear down on the opposing team’s goal at every opportunity.

Tighe showed just why the team had been missing him with a highly polished performance in the middle of the park, and taking an attacking leadership role which has been absent from the team so far this season.

NDFC managed to take the lead, but Guantanamo hit back almost immediately causing consternation and gnashing of teeth on the sidelines among the NDFC faithful.

With the sides locked in an entertaining end-to-end struggle, NDFC again took the lead before Turner scored one of the goals of the season when Guantanamo goalkeeper Francois Kruger managed to float up a perfectly weighted pass which the youngster ran on to and chipped over the top of the onrushing opposing keeper.

With the half time whistle sounding, the match went in at two a piece and Guantanamo captain Ryan Platten urged his side to keep up the pressure and not to give any space.

It was clear however that tired legs were starting to take their toll as NDFC managed to increase their possession on the ball. Guantanamo vice captain Tim Gray put in one of the performances of the night, vying for the nickname ‘The Rock’ as his defensive efforts blocked the NDFC attack time and time again.

Not to be outdone, Francois Kruger in goals managed to conjure up some remarkable saves, including one where he performed an acrobatic dive to his left to deny the NDFC attack, and a bold and courageous block to prevent the biggest name in Broome soccer, Jimmy Asimacopolous, from scoring.

Jon Falconer and Chris Hingston continued to improve on their game with solid performances from both players to link up through the midfield.

Despite the heart and passion of the Guantanamo heroes, NDFC managed to steal a goal towards the end to prevent any reoccurrence of a two-all draw.

Guantanamo now face an uncertain week ahead with no fixtures announced by the BSA, as well as the prospect of farewelling fan favourite Jorge Pereira who announced his retirement earlier in the week. Only next week will hold the answer as to whether the heroes of Guantanamo can see off their loyal friend in style.

Racing Guantanamo Matchday Squad
Ryan PLATTEN, Tim GRAY, Francois KRUGER, Joe TIGHE, Chris HINGSTON, Jon FALCONER, Adam SHANLEY, Luke TURNER, Tom OFFER

Final Score
Racing Guantanamo AFC 2 – 3 NDFC

Attendance
10