Pink United Fall To 2-0 Defeat At 1 RGR Red

Pink United travelled to 1 RGR Red on 5 January 2026 for a 9-a-side league away match against Red Team, kicking off at 7:00pm. Despite a spirited display, Pink United were unable to find the net and ultimately succumbed to a 2-0 defeat in front of a crowd of 78,200. The match was officiated by referee Dave Lee, whose performance was impeccable throughout the 90 minutes plus added time.

Pink United lined up in a 3-1-3-1 formation, deploying Malcolm Bent in goal. The defensive trio consisted of Herb Salad at right defender, Dan Thick centrally, and Mickelo Smet on the left. Arthur Wright operated as the lone central midfielder, tasked with linking defence and attack. Ahead of him, the three attacking midfielders were Tamm Slot on the right, David Son centrally, and Otis Dave on the left. Leading the line was striker Ben Lewis, expected to spearhead the offensive efforts. On the bench, Pink United had Stephen Smit and Tim Limb available as substitutes.

From the outset, Herb Salad demonstrated his attacking intent with a clever flick key pass in the third minute that created a chance for Tamm Slot, whose wide attempt failed to trouble the goalkeeper. Pink United’s early pressure was met with resilience from Red Team, but Malcolm Bent was called into action in the 17th minute, producing a fine tip over the bar to deny a powerful effort.

The match took a sour turn for Pink United in the 23rd minute when Dan Thick was shown a yellow card for diving, a caution that would weigh on the central defender’s discipline for the remainder of the game. Herb Salad’s defensive qualities were on display in the 34th minute as he intercepted a dangerous Red Team attack, preventing a clear scoring opportunity.

However, Red Team broke the deadlock in the 40th minute with a well-executed volley struck with the right foot, leaving Bent with no chance. Pink United responded with urgency, and Ben Lewis forced a save in the 43rd minute, but the visitors could not capitalise before the interval.

At half-time, the score remained 1-0 to Red Team. Early in the second half, Pink United made a double substitution in the 51st minute, bringing on Stephen Smit for Dan Thick and Tim Limb replacing David Son in a tactical reshuffle aimed at injecting fresh energy and creativity.

Unfortunately for Pink United, a costly mistake by Mickelo Smet in the 58th minute—a misplaced pass—directly led to Red Team’s second goal, scored with the left foot following the defensive error. This blow further dampened Pink United’s hopes of a comeback.

Despite the setback, Arthur Wright showed determination with two attempts on goal in the 75th minute, both of which were well saved by the opposition goalkeeper. Bent continued to keep Pink United in the contest with a crucial point-blank reaction save in the 87th minute, denying Red Team a third goal.

Ultimately, Pink United were unable to breach Red Team’s defence and left 1 RGR Red empty-handed. Malcolm Bent’s outstanding goalkeeping was a standout feature, earning him the player of the match accolade despite the defeat. The result leaves Pink United with much to reflect on as they look to bounce back in their upcoming fixtures.