Match Report - OAKLEY - 5 Feb 2017

<p>Well that was a very different challenge, but one the boys dealt wellwith.<p>Oakley were full of very able ball players, with several of themattending a football system for elite players.<p>They'd scored nearly 90goals in 13 games this season but significantly conceded 30.<p>It was clear from the beginning the game was going to be close.<p>Oakleyenjoyed possession but we were stronger during transition, as Oakleyleft themselves short on numbers in defence.<p> Phantoms deservedlyscored, a quick set of passes and we were through one on one withkeeper, but the cool finish was still required...<p> We then put ourselvesunder pressure by not maintaining possession and the old classic oftaking too many touches.<p>Late on in first half Phantoms scored again.<p>Whilst the rebound went our way, the goal was much due to realperseverance, something we've lacked prior to this season andsomething some of the new signings have certainly brought with them.<p>2-0 half time.<p>Substitutions were tricky due to predominance of forward players insquad for the game.<p> Second half started with Oakley first to the balland winning the 50:50s.<p>They looked more physical than us at thatstage.<p>They also had a couple of players (e.g.<p>10) who was a wizard atdribbling but we managed him well, defending in numbers.<p>After 15-20mins of second half the possession stats were not good but oppo didn'thave too many clear cut chances.<p>On the other hand Phantoms throughsome terrific one touch counter attaching went oh so close with twoone on ones and an amazing point blank save.<p>With 3-4 minutesremaining one final chance went begging when a tap in was requiredafter some really impressive build up play...