One over bitter rivals
Methven 4 V Burwood AFC 1
The mountaineers were back in action after a week off, with the perfect football conditions of light rain and a wet pitch to really zip the ball around at pace. The home side made a few changes with Liam Sheppard between the sticks, Rory Posa at centre back and Wes Torres replacing the injured Luccini.
This has been a grudge match for both teams in recent years, full of controversy and intensity. The match started slowly with both teams adjusting to the conditions but it was Methven who managed to take control early on with quick passes, restricting the opposition to long ball tactics. The 'Governor' Peneycad came close early on with a long range pile driver, which just went past the post.
Midway through the first half Methven were rewarded for their persistence when youngster Alex Blake found striker Angus just on the penalty spot; he spun quickly and fired a vicious shot into the net, 1-0.
Hugo bossed the midfield and in a superb sweeping move, he danced his way through the defence into the box. And just like all good ballerinas he had a graceful finish, delicately chipping the outstretched keeper. However disaster was to strike when Thabs Khabu inadvertently managed to clear the goal bound effort off the line.
The score remained 1-0 at halftime but with the awakening of the second half they weren't to rue their missed chances when Nehal Chandra popped up to score on his debut. The youngster has impressed in the reserves and deserved his call up to the seniors. He made an unmarked late run to the back post to meet Khabu's cross with an unorthodox knee finish, 2-0.
It was soon to be 3-0 when Chandra turned provider this time, presenting the ever reliable striker Angus with a simple tap in.
The away team kept up with their long ball attacks but some colossal rearguard action from King and Posa, along with the guidance of the ever vocal stand in skipper, Jason Moore; the backline dealt with everything thrown at them. The match was put out of sight when Khabu got on the end of a headed flick on from Angus. The striker has endured a tough couple of weeks and will be happy to have buried his demons in front of goal.
With only a couple of minutes to go, unfortunately the clean sheet bonus wasn't to be theirs when a deep throw in, left Methven flat footed and a consolation goal was poached, 4-1.
This slight blemish was not enough to take anything away from this fine performance as the mountaineers yet again strengthened their grip at the top of the table.
Methven go again next Saturday 19th May against Papanui-Redwood at Redwood Park, 2:30pm kick off
Other scores:
Universities Magiesterials 4 V Methven Reserves 1
St. Bedes 0 V Methven 15th grade 11