Wednesday, June 25, 2008
MARKHAM - Pistolas FC came out blazing on Sunday and avenged an earlier loss to the previously undefeated Markham Crush striking a 3-1 victory.
Though the game started off only 10 versus 9 at kickoff, players on both sides soon trickled in leaving PFC with a bench of 3 while the Crush had 5 subs.
But using some short, nice, passes, the lads were able to string together some offensive opportunities and maintained good possession on the ball. Avid www.pistolasfc.com reader Eckleton, had a much needed and welcomed return - as did Andrew T., as both these two fit and skilled players made key plays all game.
MVP Eddy was at his best as usual, striking home the opening tally before crossing a pass into the box where the ball got purposely manhandled by a defender, leading to a spot kick which again Eddy buried with more ease than the Italian team just moments earlier at another field.
The change in formation to only three defenders worked wonders as the 5 midfielders allowed for more offense as well as more coverage in getting back. Rocco, Luciano, and Dookie were solid throughout the game on defense while the "Ragin Bull" Ivano, Steve, and Carlos made great passes and plays at midfield.
Considering we were without key players like Davidinho, David B, Gus, Jason, and Ronaldo and only having three subs, the team gelled and showed it could win against any team.
But the victory was marred by a lopsided rash of yellow cards that eventually led to the sending off of Mark R. with a red card. In total 7 yellows and 1 red card were issued. In addition, Gerry picked up his 3rd yellow of the season which means he will also miss the next game along side Mark due to suspension. The frustration lies in the fact that the team was unjustly called for cards often cited by the referee as retaliation. Well, perhaps if the referee did his job there wouldn't be any retaliating!
Having now amassed 10 yellows and 2 red cards in only 6 games played, the team now faces team fines in addition to player fines.
And now, as the long weekend looms, both suspensions and personal commitments may render the team short on subs for this Sunday's match.
But the team has found a fit, skilled player in 'Daniel' who is close to signing and hopes to debut this Sunday. His potential and capabilities are definitely going to improve the team.
