Papanui-Redwood AFC Panthers 0 V Methven F.C 1

 

A sunny day set the scene for this blockbuster. However the highly anticipated match and the promise of goals failed to live up to the expectations. 

Methven rarely attained their usual fluency as the league leaders struggled to string a sequence of passes together, meaning creativity was lacking and consequently shots on goal were few and far between.

It was actually the home side who came closest in the early exchanges; with an audacious effort, forcing veteran keeper Wasley to stretch, only getting finger tips to the ball before it cracked against the bar. This was a wake up call for the mountaineers and before the half time whistle they were able to conjure a threatening attack of their own when a fine exchange with Angus and Torres led to a delightful through ball which was adjudged to be offside before the shot could be converted. 

Methven were forced to make a change at the back when Liam Sheppard went off with a head injury and was replaced by the newly signed Rowan Smithers, who made a very fine and assured debut.

The second half was to continue in the same laborious manner and with 20 minutes left on the clock the only notable attempt fell to the the governor Peneycad, when a ricochet attempt fell to his feet on the edge of the box but his rushed attempt spooned high and wide. The game seemed destined to end all square but with 10 minutes to go, Angus was tripped in the box and a penalty was awarded; much to the disgust of Papanui. The referee waved away the protests and talisman Hugo Smith stepped up. He coolly paced his approach to allow the keeper to commit one side whilst he slotted it in the other, 0-1. It was then a case of holding on to lead but Methven didn't help themselves at times with nervy passing and long balls as apposed to keeping possession and running down the clock. There were a few melees in the final moments brought about through sheer frustration on the home sides part but Methven managed to hold on and get the 3 points. 

Despite the teams performance there was still positives to be taken away. A clean sheet and getting a result after playing poorly is certainly championship form. 

 

Other scores:

 

Methven Reserves 3 V Western AFC Celtics 1 (congratulations for their first win in their history)

Christchurch Boys 3 V Methven 15th grade 4