Early adjustments reduce the pain
At half time, OWFC made the decisive formation change (see match report) which helped turn the match our way. But given that we were 3-0 down at that point, it’s a bit of a miracle we did it in time. Perhaps we should all take a bit more responsibility for pointing out not just the issues when we see them to Kaptain Kiley but also potential solutions. Ideally before the game is almost gone.
Jack Merriot is a secret goal machine
OW’s midfield metronome is better known his accurate passing, defensive awareness and hilariously over the top self-chastisement. So it was a treat to see him lolloping around the opposition box to expertly tuck away two headers. Is our Makelele transforming into our Lampard?
Taro is a team man and Skins wasn’t kidding
It takes a leader to sacrifice himself for the greater good. So a tear welled up in this writer's eye when he saw our dear leader – glass-hamstringed tap-in merchant Taro Kiley – withdraw himself at an early stage to make way for Jif, who proved more effective against this particular opponent. Such heroic self-sacrifice has not been seen since the Battle of Balaclava. Also, Miles Skinner’s pre-match prediction that his mate in the opposition back four would “keep Taro in his pocket” proved depressingly accurate. He at least had the good grace not remind everyone of it afterwards, so I’ll do the same.
Even when Waki’s early, he’s late
Waki’s arrival zone is generally from five minutes before kick-off to five minutes after, so it was encouraging to see OWFC’s defensive stalwart in the dressing room a full 45 minutes prior to to the first whistle. However, while his body was early, his mind was on the usual timetable, giving away a pen after about two minutes. He then proceeded to play to his usual excellent standards, and was absolutely immense in extra time. Oh Waki. We are So. Fricking. Close.
Jamie Rann may be the new Roberto Carlos
Why did it take us so long to see it?