Tuesday, May 18, 2010
| MARKHAM - P.F.C. kicked off their 2010 campaign this past Sunday in style against Tom's 76ers with a 1-0 win. The game was a debut for a slew of new Pistolas and the return of many veterans, including Jason Shumski who, after a one-year hiatus due to injury, rejoined the team.
For the spectators and players alike, the contest was one whereby the scoring chances were few and far between for both teams. It can be expected that, for a season opener, some jitters and 'scrambly' play has become the norm. That said, given one glorious scoring opportunity midway through the second half, Rob Pikula made no mistake in beating the keeper with a low strike which eventually accounted for the lone goal of the match.
It must be said that, although the scoring chances were few, the 76ers could lay claim to the majority of them. When chances did arise, keeper Mark Cinarari was rock solid in thwarting each attempt.
The takeaway from this game was something that past PFC teams have not seen in their short history. A strong focus on team defense, playing from their strength in goal, rather than relying heavily on their keeper and pushing too many forward. In the past, Cinarari has been expected to bail out one too many misguided attacks which has proven to be a formula for disaster. PFC success this season will undoubtedly come from strong defensive play first, coupled with opportunistic scoring.
Another surprise was the work of injured PFC striker and team President, Romerinho. A commitment to frequent substitutions, which has long been a crutch for this franchise, was clearly evident this past Sunday and bodes well for the team going forward.
A solid start to the ever-growing hopes of a comeback season for the franchise. |
