On a bright and sunny Sunday afternoon, the Southend Collegians Sunday team finally got the chance to play a game in the Spring Cup organized by the Sceptre League. It was a home game against Estuary United (S) Firsts. Our team had been eagerly waiting for this moment, and they were determined to make the most of it.
The start of the game was shaky, which was understandable given the stop-start nature of the season since Christmas. Within minutes, we conceded a very silly goal. But, in a way, it was a wake-up call for the team. About five minutes after conceding, we kicked into high gear and started playing some of our best football of the season. We created chance after chance, and despite having one goal ruled out for offside, we managed to get back on level terms around the 15-20 minute mark.
Perry Osborne did some great work on the right wing, putting in a lovely ball for Rick Marsh to head home from about 8 yards out, making it 1-1. The game became very open, with Collegians having numerous chances. Minutes after that goal, a lovely run from Mitch Sweeney got him into a one-on-one chance, but unfortunately, the goalkeeper got the better of him. However, soon after that, Mitch was able to get his own back, as he saw Perry Osborne in a much better and open position to score. Perry knocked the ball into an open goal, making the score 2-1. The pressure continued, and Mitch helped himself to three assists on the day, setting up Perry Osborne to grab a hat-trick and himself, rounding off a great day for the team, scoring his second goal of the game.
At halftime, the manager made a few substitutions, with new signing Adam Smith coming on to make his debut centre-back, and he looked like a duck to water in the team, having a lovely and comfortable game. The second half started, and Collegians continued where they left off, creating lovely moves and chances. Mitch helped himself to three assists, and he was soon on the score sheet with his second goal of the game, making the score 6-1.
Rick Marsh managed to get on the score sheet again, making the score 7-1 after about 70 minutes. Unfortunately, the last ten minutes were probably our worst, as fatigue started to show and concentration was a bit off. The keeper, who had been outstanding throughout the season, had an off ten minutes, gifting Estuary United a goal by allowing the ball to drop through his hands, making it 7-2. Minutes later, they scored again making it 7-3, which was how the game ended.
After the end of the match, SCFC Sunday manager, Dan Phillips, said:
It was a great team effort, and everyone contributed to the win. The team had a good balance between the attack and defense, we were clinical in front of goal and the back four put in a solid performance. It was also great to see the new signing, Adam, fitting in well with the team.
In summary, it was a well-deserved win for Southend Collegians Reserves, who showed their true potential and strength. They played some of their best football, and their attacking prowess was exceptional. With a performance like this, the team can look forward to the next game with confidence and determination.
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