Uni taught a lesson

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 University Berocca Forwards 1 V Methven FC 2

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The Mountaineers have enjoyed a very successful league campaign this season, demolishing most teams along the way, however today saw them face a side with just as much grit and determination, which made for a mouth watering affair.

The away side were quick to get into their stride in the first ten minutes and were unlucky not to take the lead through either Liam Hett or Nick Eden; however as the half played out the chances became more fleeting and there was definitely an issue with the midfield becoming disbanded from the attack. The Berrocca’s on the other hand didn’t pose much of a threat at the other end, mainly chancing their luck with long balls to no avail.

The second half started and there was definitely a sense that one goal would probably be enough to win for either side. The beast man, Hett had struggled getting the ball out of his feet at times throughout the match and when he dwelled on the ball too long, he was dispossessed by an attacker and with quick thinking, lifted a delightful ball over the flat footed Methven defence and into the path of the running striker. Veteran keeper, James Walter Wasley could do very little but make himself big but unfortunately his best efforts couldn’t prevent the inevitable and ball slid past him to make it 1-0.

With time running out, the spectators bared witness to another side of the Methven game, not often seen or indeed needed for most of the season. they dug deep with a never say die attitude. Jan Luccini moved further forward, leaving John Peneycad to cover his place as well as the centre of the midfield. Bit of a gamble but needs must and soon the heroics were paid off as more and more chances were created. A long ball from Liam Sheppard, finally unlocked the home sides resilient defence and from a tight angle Nick Eden beat the keeper, who up until then looked impregnable, 1-1. Methven didn’t ease up there, they continued their onslaught and when Luccini recycled his corner into the goalmouth mixer there was only going to be one outcome. The keeper was committed and out of his goal, whilst the dangerman Gareth Saltimer had the ball at his feet, 6 yards from goal. With total calmness he slotted home to give the mountaineers a deserved lead.

They managed to hold on until the final whistle in a very disciplined manner, not taking any chances and maintaining possession. This was a very hard fought victory and one that will be no doubt treasured as a defining 3 points, come the end of the season, which could have quite easily gone the other way.

Methven FC go head to head with Selwyn next week at the Methen domain, 2:30pm kick off.

Meanwhile back on their own turf, the Reserves suffered another defeat but there were good signs of progression within the camp and they are certainly looking a much tougher beast to contend with. Selwyn managed to vanquish their opponents by the most slender of margins, running out 1-2 victors.