Hempstead vs Medway Lions
0 - 1
08 May 2016 · Mmsfl<br>Senior section
Away cup match played on 08 May 2016.
Kicked off at 4:00 PM
0-1
vs Hempstead
Away cup match
<p>A hot, sunny day in Chatham as Medway Lions took to the field to face Hempstead. Lions chasing the double whilst cup speciallists Hempstead were looking to repeat their win of the previous season. The ground was rock hard with hardly any grass cover which contributed to the game becoming a battle with a lack of flowing football.
<p>Ricki picked up a yellow card for a late high tackle in the first five minutes. Elz had the best first half chance in one on one with the keeper but the shot was too close to the goalie who saved well. Glen became Lions best attacking weapon in the first half as he bossed the aerial battles. Mike made a save one on one when the linesman cocked up but in the main both defences were on top. Lions looked the best side but the half time whistle blew with the score 0.0.
<p>Second half highlights Nath's close range chance deflected over. Ram turned the defender inside out but blasted too close to the keeper who saved, Brad's effort blocked in a goal mouth scramble and the closest Ram hit the crossbar with a great free kick. Mike made some outstanding close range saves in goalmouth scrambles.
<p>Brad was clearly taken out in the box but the ref bottled giving the pen, Gaffer let him know he got that one wrong.
<p>Elz got the winner 7 minutes from time as he ran on to Rammy's through ball and calmly slotted past the keeper, unconfirmed reports state Elz does have a right foot. Team and crowd went nuts and Lions saw out late pressure with Mike at his best and winning MOM.
<p>On the day the back 3 were at their best. Nath Maca and Shea worked the wings hard while RIck Brad and Glen battled in the middle. Jas and Martin looked to bring a bit of creativity. Elz and Ram threatened all game and finally got theall important goal. Mike was just superb. Geoff and Lewis didn't ge on this time but have made a massive contribution over the season.
<p>A season nobody should forget. History makers in the premier division. In all the years the league has run few sides have ever achieved what we did this season. Obviously Gaffer is rightly proud of you all. Not sure what I will do for my football fix over the next few weeks. Great Vardy party last night. LIIIOOOONNNNSSSSSSSS