TENSE THRILLER IN NORTHAMPTON AS WARWICK SECONDS NOTCHES UP A WIN

20/02/08

Warwick Men’s 4 @ 3 Northampton
(Win in sudden death)

Looking to revenge the one-goal defeats to Northampton, at Fresherfest and in the first rematch, Warwick came into the match, full of confidence and fully aware of the vast improvements they have made since the last meeting between the two sides.

With the ball staying on the ground for large amounts of the time and a high-pressuring Northampton defence, Warwick could not find any rhythm in the first quarter, hardly being able to settle in attack. The Warwick defence, led by keeper Jason Nazareth (9 saves) and man of the match Billy Halani, were able to stop any Northampton attack, meaning scores were 0-0 at quarter time.

Following a rousing team talk from the captain, Warwick started the second quarter with much greater belief and purpose. Tom Curtis (0,1) took it among himself to initiate an attack, dodging from up top. Leaving his marker for dead, he was able to find an unmarked Delon Tang (1,0) who finished off a great attacking move with the first goal of the match. Warwick added to that tally courtesy of an unassisted effort from Simon Robinson (2,0) dodging through the Northampton defence, giving a 2-0 lead heading into halftime.

A shocked Northampton side then started playing their more experienced players, looking for a response to a great first half from Warwick. The experience started to tell as despite the valiant efforts of the Warwick defence, Northampton would score three in the quarter, punishing Warwick’s inability to get possession and hold onto the ball.

With only one goal in it, Warwick came out for the fourth quarter fighting. With time ticking down and growing tension, Simon Robinson would receive a head check. Infuriated he fired an unstoppable shot low and away from the Northampton keeper, tying the game. As both sides pushed for a winner, both goals would remain untouched.

Overtime would come and go meaning after 90 minutes of play, sudden death, “Braveheart” style would ultimately decide the outcome of the game. Playing a captain’s role, Ben Cuddeford stepped up to face the Northampton’s captain. He would win the face off and launch the first attack. Despite the Warwick team on the sidelines belting out a rendition of “Oh Warwick Lax”, half the pitch would prove to be too much for his tired legs and would pass the ball to the Warwick keeper while he emptied his stomach on the halfway line. Keeper Jason Nazareth then ran up the field, beat the remaining, weary defender with ease, faked the Northampton goalie and buried the game winner.

A few words from the triumphant Captain: “Great play and great teamwork. We had northampton pinned down for much of the match but just couldn't find the back of the net! Probably our last but definitely my favourite match of the season.”