Match Report: Point v Carloway 17/07/15

Reds eventually show the Way

Point 4 v 0 Carloway

(League 10)

Point continued their ascent towards the top of the table with a hard fought 3 points against a strong Carloway side. The game was a lot closer than the scoreline suggests and up until the final 15 minutes, the game was still in the balance. The Reds goals came from Elliot, Ali G, Sam’s bum and Stu F.

First half
As a result of a refereeing crisis, the game was the only one to take place which annoyed some of the players who were wanting an “all dayer” at the Heb Celt Festival. Anyway, there was plenty of time for those shenanigans after the game.
The Reds started well and had a couple of good chances from corners which were headed over and wide by Elliot and Stu F. Carloway had FRAZMAC playing for them, a point noted by Coach Stoodie as he appreciated his car pre match. Anyway, they also had a youngster called Angus Grant up on holiday who was looking pretty lively, and Ali G and Stu F had  to be on their toes.
The first chance Carloway had was when Lee Johnson tested Wrighty with a shot from a tight angle which the Legend saved well.

The Reds took the lead after around half an hour and it was a fairly controversial moment. A free kick down the right was quickly taken to Alexander who swung the ball in towards the back post. A couple of Reds strikers went for it and missed the ball which made it all the way to the back post. It then rebounded off the post to Elliot who slammed it high into the net! Get in there. Point 1 v 0 Carloway. The linesman stood with his flag up…the referee consulted him before awarding the goal, much to Carloway’s annoyance. All I know is that I don’t understand the offside rule anymore. And we were winning. 🙂

Domhnall Mackay, so often the rock at the heart of the Carloway defence, was playing in midfield and he along with Squegg and Eachainn Miller were giving the Reds midfield a tough game. Ali Laxay was playing at the back and was having a topper of a game against Wally, although the mini messi had travelled from Ireland earlier in the day. Whenever I was grumpy and tired my mum would offer me a honey sandwich ( it has become a running joke) and I felt like asking Wally if he wanted a honey sandwich. I’m sure it would have helped.

Half time
We knew we were in a tough match and we would need to defend well to keep the Way out. Coach Stoodie was confident that as the game wore on and spaces opened up, we would have chances with our pace to counter attack.
Someone delivered us our cuppa and cakes and once again, they were quite delicious. I hadn’t had any dinner so gave one of my cakes to Ali Lamont (who didn’t need asking twice) so that I would have space for later on.

Second half
Carloway came out firing and FRAZMAC had a couple of decent chances on the angle, but first Wrighty and then a goaline clearance by Angus denied the goal machine. The Reds were dicing with death and Coaches Stoodie and Macaulay were scratching their heads, how can we get on top? We swapped the front three around to see if they could get any joy. After around an hour Wally played a lovely through ball to Alexander who motored towards goal. Ali Laxay came across to make a last ditch tackle before the Red forward could strike. Ali slid, Alex fell, PENALTY!! Once again Carloway went mental over the decision but Ali G wasn’t feeling any sympathy as he smacked the ball into the back of the net. Point 2 v 0 Carloway.

I am writing this 3 weeks after the game with no notes. This is because:
1) I was on holiday and got lazy.
2) It was festival time.
3) All my notes turned to mush on a wet night v Westside.
4) If you want a more detailed report, go to the Carloway website, Stuart Rankin’s reports are at a different level to mine.
As a result I cant remember too much more of the game, or the next 4 games!  I remember that there were some pretty wild tackles going on. The Reds extended their lead when a near post free kick by Duncan “Pantzer” Hunter found its target and Sam’s bum cheekily put it in at the near post. Point 3 v 0 Carloway.

At last Coach Stoodie and I could relax and further gloss was put on the scoreline when Stu F ventured forward and tapped in following a cut back from Alexander. Point 4 v 0 Carloway.

Point man of the match: Elliot Rudall. Towering performance from the midfield powerhouse.

Moment of match: Ali Gillies’ penalty nearly took the net off – the grumblies were seen cowering behind the goal. Vital strike.

Moan of the match: I don’t think there should be any games on the Friday of festival week. Loads of players, coaches and fans want to go to the tent or catch up with friends and family who come up at this time of year.

Match Report: Westside v Point 13/07/15

Courageous Reds Left with Mountain to Climb.

Westside 4 v 0 Point

(E&F semi 1st leg) 13/7/15

Match Details

Well it looks like a bit of a hammering but anyone who was at the game will tell you the patchwork Reds more than matched the cup holders in all aspects of the game, except putting the stupid ball in the net (which is kind of important).

Unfortunate first half goals left the Reds two behind before a couple of very late second half goals by the West put the tie firmly in their command. What the score does not tell is that the Reds, who were missing half a team of regulars, were superb on the night and had three juniors in Wally, Alex and Alfie, who played brilliantly throughout, giving the West defenders all sorts of headaches and combining beautifully. Alas, just as we were looking most likely to get a goal back, a touch of class from Ali Barvas and Dan Macphail put the West back in control. The fourth goal was just rubbing it in!

First half
Prior to kick off Coach Stoodie and I looked at our team and their team and feared the worst. We were without Stu F (ankle), Stu M (calf injury), Elliot (work), DJ Clinton (work),Daniel (apparently in a field somewhere after T in the park), Matthew ( T in the park), Scotty Bomb (injured after heroics in Lochs game), Maca (holiday) as well as long term absentee Andrew Murray (knee). All this meant we had to dig into the Rudhach reserve bank. In came ERA megastar DJ  Kai for his first game in 2 years, 15 year old Alfie Macmillan at left wing and newlywed Allan Macmillan, who had come straight from spending a luxurious weekend of shooting and fishing at Amhuinnsuidhe Castle.  “Ra ra Save a bit of Venison for me darling,  off to play footie with the boys.”

It really was good of Allan and Kai to come along as without we would have been up the Creed with no paddle. Thanks guys.

West meanwhile, seemed to have only Scott Graham missing from their impressive lineup, which included Mojo and Angie Campbell as well as most of their regular team, bar Martainn and Campbell.

The first chance of the game fell to the Reds when Angus found himself with a free header, 8 yards out, from an Alex free kick. Unfortunately for the Reds and the youngster he headed straight at Peter Macaskill in the West goal. What a chance.(2 mins). Coach Stoodie had decided our best chance was to let the West have the ball up to a point before pressing the play. This tactic worked well although it would have been out the window if the West had taken one of their early chances. Mojo was proving illusive, hot off a 4 goal burst v Ness in the quarters, and twice he came close to finding Wrighty’s left hand corner with curling shots. Dan Macphail, coming in from the left, also had a chance but he blazed wide.

The game then settled down and the Reds were looking comfortable for the next 15 minutes, Ali G and Colin Mackay ( Austin Powers) marshalling the defence and Alex and Spike protecting well. Wally and Kai were giving the West defence plenty to think about on the counter, especially as West seemed to be playing a very attacking 4-2-4 formation. On one occassion Kai lost his footing and ploughed straight through the defender and into the goalie. The West grumblies ( and they are grumbly!) roared but the DJ had just slipped as though he was dancing at a foam party in Ibiza. Woooop wooop!

Soon after, the West scored and although the build up was excellent, the manner of the finish was gutting. Mojo and Ali Barvas combined nicely to send Gordy Campbell haring toward the bye line. Gordy’s cross was fired into ‘the corridor of uncertainty’ and Ali G, running towards his own goal trying to intercept, could only deflect the ball past Wrighty and into the net.  Nightmare. West 1 v 0 Point (26).

A couple of minutes later and the West made it 2 and again, the goal was an incredibly frustrating one to lose. A long high ball was played over the Reds backline and Innes Iain chased on. Wrighty came out to catch but as he jumped, either he was nudged away from the ball or misjudged the bounce (depending on who you ask). The ball fell to Innes Iain who squared to Mojo and he slid the ball into an empty net. The Reds fans went nuts, claiming a foul, but the whistle remained silent and the West had a 2 goal lead (29).

We had to be careful now as the West smelled blood and piled forward. Dan Macphail was next to threaten when his header cannoned off the bar, but on the whole the Rudhachs defence were still doing well, with young Angus continuing to excel against Ali Barvas, and Allan continuing to stalk Dan on the left.

Towards the end of the half a low cross from the West left found Duncan Maclean inside the box, but the West full back’s right foot shot was saved by Wrighty. Meanwhile at the end of the half Allan got forward from right back and had a long shot which was a good strike but wide of the mark. DJ Kai alone screamed corner. The ref or his assistant must want a free pass for ERA as we were behind the shot and it went nowhere near a defender! Corner given. Unfortunately it came to nothing and we were soon trooping into the changing rooms.

Half-time
Despite trailing the lads were very upbeat, we had lost 2 crappy goals and despite these, the tactics seemed to be working. Coach Stoodie asked everyone to be brave on the ball, keep the shape and there was a good chance one of our forwards could nick a goal or 2. Remember there’s a second leg! We checked up on any ailments and sent the troops back over the top.

Scotty Bomb got me a cup of tea, which was very nice of him and tasted good, but not as good as the last one I got in Barvas, though that was in my top 5 of all time. I’m nothing if not controversial! I also bumped into Jim O Donnell, who was guarding his cuppa carefully following the Wally volley incident from the Lochs match in Point.

Well the Reds started the half on the front foot and Alfie was coming more into the game, combining well with Kai and Wally down the left. Alex was also beginning to find more room, running off the back of Angie and Colin George, who were patrolling the West midfield. Don’t get me wrong, the West probably had the majority of the play still but the Rudhachs were coming more and more into it. But then Westside’s maverick Ali Barvas, is always likely to do something special, and after 60 minutes his shot clipped the crossbar on its way over. I think he has done that very shot in most games against Point this year, hopefuly they keep hitting the crossbar. Wally was the next to try his luck but his shot flew wide after good build up play by Alex.

After 63 mins Kai got away from his marker down the right. As he went to cross with his right, his left foot touched the ball accidentally and Kai missed the ball completely with his right. The whole stadium stopped to laugh. Players, subs, managers, Tech mobile (!), Point grumblies and West grumblies were united in their laughter and even the tea lady stopped to laugh. Unlucky Kai!

A couple of minutes later and Alfie, who was having a storming game, had a chance on his left foot but Peter saved his cross shot with Kevin Flower ready to pounce. Alfie, a Ryan Giggs style winger with great balance and skill, was running at players and going by them at will, Alex (another lefty), was doing the same from the centre of the pitch whilst Jonny Wallace was being twisted left and right by Wally, resulting in a booking for the big centre half. For all that though, the final pass, shot, cross wasn’t quite there and it was annoying to see such refreshing play not yielding goals, or more clearcut chances.

After 65 mins DJ Kai was  replaced by 14 year old Domhnall Alec Morrison, who showed great touch and composure for the rest of the game. I didn’t write too many notes as I was caught up watching the Reds, with their four forwards’ ages totalling around 62 years ,take it to the West and play some excellent stuff. After 75 mins Alfie waltzed through two tackles before slipping the ball through to Alex, who was only halted by a superb sliding tackle by Duncan Maclean, covering from left back. Wally then fizzed a shot wide as the Reds pushed for a goal.  A couple of free kick just outside the box were also squandered as well as Ali G hitting one from 45 yards which was a bit of a wide. FORE!

West then had a good chance when Wrighty had a rush of blood to the head and sprinted out of his box trying to intercept a pass he would never reach. What the? Where the? What’s he doing? Luckily Mojo got freaked out and volleyed wide. Wrighty claims it was always under control…..

As so often happens in sport, you must score when on top as the opposition will come back at you.  And so it was after 80 mins, Ali Barvas collected the ball on the right and pinged a fantastic cross to the back post. Allan had tucked in a touch too much ( like at the Amhuinnsuidhe banquet) and Dan was there behind him to head back across Wrighty and into the corner. Suckerpunch! Noooo. West 3 v 0 Point. (80 mins).

The Reds kept pushing right to the end and Wally was showing some amazing skills. At one point it seemed half the West team were chasing him round the box. Unfortunately he couldnt get a shot away and it must be said that West’s defence did well covering for eachother.
West had made a couple of subs and one of them, Conner Mackay, is superfast. After 92 mins the Reds lost the ball and it was played out to Conner who ran really fast with the ball! He then fired in a cracking cross and Ali Barvas was there at the back post to head low into the corner. Come off it man! West 4 v 0 Point.  Full time

Point man of match: Alfie Macmillan- Showed great skill, pace, bravery and game awareness for one so young. Well played.

Moment of match:
1. Kai’s ‘no look pass’.
2. Peter Macaskill in goals for West grunts when taking bye kicks. Neenie started calling him Sharapova and soon the whole Red Army were all grunting back at a bemused Peter! Every time he took a bye kick….

Moan of match: The scoreline was very harsh on the Reds, who despite lacking players put in a very courageous performance.  That’s football.

Conclusion: The Reds have a mountain to climb. A four goal deficit has, however, been done before and remember, when Sir Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tensing arrived in Nepal in 1953 they had a mountain to climb, and you know what….?

COME ON THE REDS!!

Match Report: Point v United 06/07/15

Kettings keeps the Reds boiling

Point 4 v 0 United

(6/7/15) League 9

Match Details Here

Following the Summer(!) break the Reds got back to winning ways with a convincing win over Stornoway United. In what was a potential banana skin in the league race, Sam Macsween opened the scoring at the end of the first half and Point raced away with it after half time. Further goals by Elliot Rudall, Stephen Kettings and Duncan Hunter sealed the win.

First Half
Coach Stoodie had a number of call offs prior to the game so the Rudhachs had to utilise the squad, and yet again the lads who came in did very well. Work denied the Reds the services of Alec Lamb, Mowgli and Ali Gillies whilst Stu Munro (injured in Jersey), Stu Flower (injured in Ness) and Stephen Campbell (ill) where all unable to start. Ruari Miller was on holiday. Angus Macdonald came in at centre back, Matthew Campbell at left back, Duncan “Neur” Hunter (am I at N?) into midfield and Alexander Macdonald at left wing.

It had been a lovely day and my brother was up on holiday with his family. We decided to have a bbq at Garry beach. Almost there and it became foggy! We decided to go to Coll beach, too windy! So we ended up at the Braighe which was lovely except that it’s only 2 mins from my parent’s house and we could have just eaten there! Eventually the fog engulfed us at the Braighe and that’s how the game started at the Camp Roo a few hours later.

The first chance came when Sam escaped down the right and hammered a cross along the 6 yard line but there was nobody there to tap in and it was cleared to safety (7 mins). United were keeping their shape well and the Reds were struggling to get shots away to test Jack Maclennan in the United goal. After 16 mins Wally’s corner found Angus inside the box but his shot was blocked by a United defender.

United hadn’t offered much going forward but they had a couple of good breaks around the 20 minute mark, with Scott Montgomery and Andrew Morrison heavily involved. Luckily for the Reds we had two quick centre backs in Elliot and Angus who could keep up with the two forwards. After 24 minutes Elliot made a run forward and his shot was eventually flicked just over by Sam with his back to goal. Alexander was having a good game down the left and he and his marker David Allan were involved in numerous tussles. David ended up with a bloody nose and proceeded to play on with the biggest bit of cotton wool up his nose ever! As he came to take a throw beside me I said “David you can probably take the cotton wool out now?” “Oh yeah, I’d forgotten about that!”, Daniel, who was impatiently waiting for the throw in:  “Hurry up”.    David: ” I’m sorry but I was talking to your managers”. Nice exchange with no swearing.

Alexander then had a couple of shots which Jack dealt with comfortably, but the Reds were ramping up the pressure. After 34 mins Wally had a shot well saved by Jack as the Rudhachs probed for a first half settler. From the resultant corner, Elliot’s towering header found Daniel but he was leaning back and volleyed high over the bar. After 38 minutes Wally skinned 2 or 3 players down the left and cut the ball back to Sam, 7 yards out. The ball bobbled up and Sam was unable to sort himself out to get his shot away. (it looked like he was trying to do keepy ups with a hot coal!) Surely the goal was coming.

After 41 mins Spike tried a shot from 40 yards which bobbled wide and had Coach Stoodie going ballistic! Not that Spike doesn’t have it in his locker but he is not renowned for his long long range shooting. After 44 mins the Reds won a throw down the right equal with the box. Wally threw in quickly to Sam, who spun his man and shot left footed from the corner of the box. The ball rocketed past Jack into the far top corner. Waaw, what a strike. You could tell it was a beauty because you could hear people gasp. Point 1 v 0 United. Half time.

Half-time
The dressing room was fairly relaxed thanks to Sam’s firecracker and the chat was to keep working hard, playing on the front foot, and more chances would come our way.

As we came out for the second half it became apparent that Coach Stoodie had commandeered young Matthew Wright to get some teas and treats for us.  Well, didn’t  he come back with a tray with our drinks and a selection of beautiful cakes.  Never had I seen the likes at a football match….. As the subs looked on with envy, Angus and I gorged ourselves. Mmmmmm.

Second Half
United started the half well and won a couple of corners, though they both came to nothing. After 55 mins Wally had a long distance shot tipped over by Jack as the Reds tried to get going again. Four minutes later and the Rudhachs doubled their advantage when, following an inswinging free kick by Alexander, Elliot had a shot saved byJack before cheekily back heeling the rebound into the corner. Nice goal! Point 2 v 0 United.

This goal seemed to relax the boys as their passing and movement improved from 60 mins onwards. After 63 mins some lovely interplay betweeen Kettings, Wally and Sam ended with Kettings flying into the box from right back. Kettings took one look up and hammered the ball across the keeper into the far corner. Great goal! Point 3 v 0 United.

The goal seemed to galvanise Kettings to go on more runs as he turned into Dani Alves for the next 20 mins. Back and forth he ran, supplementing Sam and Wallys interplay and causing headaches for the United full back James Macaulay, who resorted to lying on top of the Point players to try and stop them. Sam enjoyed munching on the sacred turf! Not.

The Reds continued to press forward and Duncan, Wally and Alex continued to combine nicely. The game began to drift a wee bit as both teams knew the result was in the bag for the Rudhachs. There was time for another goal and it was another beauty. Great play between Wally and Sam sent the latter sprinting away down the right. Sam squared the ball across the goal and there was Duncan “Ozil” Hunter sliding in for his 6th of the season. Point 4 v 0 United. (82 mins)

United were down and out but could have snatched a late consolation, first when Scott Montgomery shot wide from a good position, and then when Kevin Flower shot powerfully from 18 yards. Ain’t nobody gonna take a clean sheet away from Wrighty though! The legend sprung to his left and beat the ball away. Full time.

Point man of the match: Stephen Kettings, a performance with everything you’d want from a full back.

Moment of match: Sam smashing in that left foot screamer. Get in there!!

Moan of match: Elliot (6ft 3 ish)was laughing/moaning about wee Andrew Morrison from Harris who plays up front for United. Apparently the feisty youngster (5ft 7 and 16yr old?) was telling the Reds stopper he was gonna deck him and do this and that to him!

Match Report: Westside v Point 19/06/15

All Square In Classic Western

Westside 3 v 3 Point

(19/6/15) league 8

Match Details Here

Westside and Point slugged it out something special on Friday. The play raged from end to end as both teams looked for the knock out blow right until the final whistle, when a number of players sank to their knees in frustration and exhaustion. For the neutral it was a classic. For the fans and management it was an emotional rollercoaster (stressful). In a match which had a bit of everything ultimately both teams had to settle for a point, which I would say was a fair result. The Rudhachs came from behind at half time to lead twice but were pegged back with 7 minutes remaining by a deflected Martainn Shields strike.

First half
The Rudhachs intricate pre match routine was thrown into disarray by two humungous lorries carrying a wind turbine across the Barvas moor. The lorries were going at about 10 mph. It did however give Coach Stoodie and me the chance to quiz Duncan “Khedira” Hunter about his new job and young Angus Macdonald about his school trip to Barcelona. Well once we’d done that we were just about through Newmarket so Coach Stoodie put on Radio 1 which was techno music-didn’t really match the speed we were going!

Anyway we arrived and it was evident the boys wouldn’t need much firing up as they were already well up for the game and fully focussed on the big match ahead. Coach Stoodie named a team which was short three regular starters in El Capitan Stuart Flower, right back speedster Stephen Kettings and midfield enforcer Elliot Rudall. It gave the boss the chance to utilise our strong squad which we knew would be required and the boys who came in performed brilliantly.

The Reds started well and Mowgli was the first to threaten with a volley from a Daniel cross. Unfortunately Mowgli didn’t connect properly and the ball was cleared to safety. A couple of minutes later Angus could only head the ball into Martainn’s path and the West wide boy tested out the Legend Alex Wright with a low left footer which was gathered safely. Westside began to get a foothold in the game and had a couple of dangerous corners which the Reds defended well. After 12 minutes Ali Barvas had a left foot curler clutched by the Legend as West continued to press. However it was the Rudhachs who almost drew first blood when Wally scampered onto a Daniel flick, took on Campbell on the left and shot narrowly wide of Peter Macaskill’s left hand post (13 mins). Woooof inches wide!

Ali Barvas almost broke the deadlock with a long shot which just dipped too late before the West took the lead after 18 minutes. Great work by Innes Ian at Point’s left hand corner flag saw him back flick the ball through Stephen Campbell’s legs and dart along the bye line. From there he did well to pick out Donnie Smith in the middle who deflected the cross in expertly with his left foot. The Legend had no chance. Bad start for the Reds who would have to be careful, as the West have a habit of scoring close together and steamrolling (steamrollering?) teams, a bit like the Highland Amateur horror show which we don’t talk about! West 1 v 0 Point.

The Reds were playing well and were probably shading possession, with the centre backs, Spike and Mowgli all looking comfortable on the ball and starting off moves. Wally was giving Campbell a tough game and almost scored with a long range free kick, but Peter palmed it away for a corner (23). There wasn’t many chances for the next 15 minutes but the game continued to flow, with referee Davie Macleod doing well.

After 38 minutes Wally floated a free kick towards the back post and Peter had to scramble back to to tip it onto the bar. As the ball came down Ally Williamson almost  seemed to clear into his own net but it went for a corner. As half time approached the Reds had a great chance. Good play by Stu Munro sent Sam sprinting towards goal. As Peter came out he looked favourite to gather but in the wet conditions he spilled the ball to Sam 15 yards out, on the angle. Unfortunately for the Reds top scorer he got too much on his shot and it flew inches over. So close!!

Half time
There wasn’t too much to say to the lads, they were playing well. The shout was to try and have a few more shots in the tricky conditions and to maintain their focus. If they kept passing the ball and having confidence in their ability, the goals would come.
Scotty Bomb did a tea run and by heck they make good tea in Barvas. No cakes for me but I noticed Scott had a Scotch pie! That’s taking it up a level, SAVOURY!

Second half
West came out firing and Gordon Campbell shot just wide following a corner as they looked for a killer second. The Rudhachs weren’t even entertaining that thought though! After 49 minutes came the equaliser, and it was a beauty. The Reds played their way out of trouble in the left back area and the ball was swept across the pitch to Mowgli. Mowgli played the ball to Sam who raced clear of Jonny Wallace and hammered it goalward. Jonny slid in to desperately block but only succeeded in deflecting the ball over a helpless Peter Macaskill and into the far corner! Ya Beauty. West 1 v 1 Point.

Not happy with equalising, the Rudhachs continued to press a shell shocked West and following good play by Angus and Sam, the ball was played into Alex “Chopper” Lamb in the box. Lamb took a touch, cut inside a defender and placed the ball beautifully into the corner with his right (wrong) foot. Cool as a cucumber West 1 v 2 Point (53 mins). How long to go? Too flicking long!

From there the game took off with attack and counter attack and attack and counter attack as legs began to tire and players got desperate. After 54 minutes Colin George shot wide for West and after 57 minutes Sam got away again, this time he dragged his shot wide of the far post. Ali Barvas was coming into the game and must have put about 300 crosses into the Reds box but Stephen and Ali were defending the crosses well. The Rudhachs, whisper it,  were beginning to look fairly comfortable. Dont even think that you idiot!! Soon after,  Angus passed the ball back to Wrighty who then passed it back to Angus. The youngster, fresh off the bus from Barcelona, was caught on the ball by Martainn who raced toward goal. His cut back was palmed out by the Legend but only onto the head of evergreen Dan Macphail who headed into the net via the crossbar. Aaaaagh.  West 2 v 2 Point. Bad goal from the Reds perspective. So Frustrating. (65 minutes)

The Rudhachs responded well and regained the lead 2 minutes later. Good play by Alec Lamb and Stu Munro worked a shooting opportunity for Daniel on the edge of the box. Daniel fairly scuffed his shot but fortunately Sam was on hand to control, touch away from the defender and whipcrack a left footer into the keepers left hand corner. Top striking. West 2 v 3 Point (67). Phew, I can’t take any more! I’m glad the cup final was less eventful as reading twitter and texts on this game would have finished me off!

Could the Rudh hold on this time? Well, the next 10 minutes were fairly uneventful as the Reds soaked up pressure and looked to counter. West had thrown on Conner Mackay, another attacker, as they really couldn’t afford to lose this game in what’s turning into a classic title race.

After 80 minutes a corner from Westside’s left was met at the back post by Jonny Wallace, 2 yards out. Jonny caught the ball on the half volley which meant it flew upwards and rather than hit the net, it hit the underside of the bar and ended up in Wrighty’s grateful arms. That was a close one. A couple of minutes later Ali Barvas crossed from the right and for once it cleared the Rudhach heads and was met on the volley by Innes Ian, 3 yards out. Amazingly the select hitman got it all wrong and as the ball spun up, Lamb was there to clear for the Reds. The ball was just coming back at the Reds though and Martainn cut inside from 20 yards and struck for goal. Coach Stoodie and me were were right behind the ball as it took a wicked deflection off Stephen Campbell and gave Wrighty no chance. NOOOOOOOOO. West 3 v 3 Point. (83mins)

Amazingly there was still time for another Rudhach chance. In the 88th minute Alex Lamb crossed from the left, Mowgli somehow smuggled the ball through to Sam who spun and shot in one movement. Time slowed as the ball trundled toward the corner, could it? ……….. No, off the post and soon after the whistle went. WHAT A GAME!

Point man of match: Great team performance but two goal Sam gets the nod.

Moment of match: Sam’s slow motion shot hitting the post. Would have been the Reds first win in New Barvas.

Moan of the match: One of the Red Army was overheard saying the Westside tea was better than the Camp Roo tea! Treason.

Match Report: Point v Lochs 15/06/15

Local boys done good

Point 3 v 0 Lochs

(E and F cup first leg) 15/6/15

Match Details Here

The Reds will take a  3 goal advantage into the second leg of the Eilean an Fhraoch cup first round after defeating an understrength Lochs team at the Camp Roo. It was a good night for the Reds who were missing a number of players themselves, though the second leg will be very tough, particularly if the Lochs all star injury list clears up.

First half
Well it was my first game in three weeks (not that I play), having been struck down by a mystery virus. The players had been doing very well, winning all but one game (controversial draw up in Ness) and we had even won our first cup in years. I was begining to think I should stay away! The cup final was a nightmare to miss, having to rely on Scotty Bomb text messages for a nail biting, gut wrenching final 15 minutes. But we did it and I was so happy I had a second tunnocks tea cake, Rock n Roll Baby!

Anyway, to the game. The Reds had most of the possession to begin with but after 6 minutes some slack defending led to a Lochs corner. The ball in was a good one, Ally Lamont half punched it clear and it fell to Graeme Mackenzie, my maths teaching buddy, on the volley. Graeme got his angle of elevation all wrong and the ball sailed a beautiful parabola over the bar – unlucky G Mac!

As the game progressed it became clear that the Lochies would allow the Reds possession up to a point before closing ranks and looking to play on the break, with Ross Allison of United a particular speed merchant we would have to look out for. The Reds needed some inspiration and as so often this season, it was to come from Super Wally, Super Wally, away, away, away.  The mini Messi cut inside Stuart Mcqueen before firing the ball towards the keeper’s far left hand post. Gordy got down well to it and pushed the ball away to safety, or so he thought! Kevin “Hothouse” Flower was on to it in a flash and from a seemingly impossible angle hammered the ball high into the net off the crossbar. Great finish Kevin! Point 1 v 0 Lochs (19 mins).

A few minutes later and Elliot had a long distance shot which Gordy saved well. The Reds were struggling to break through the Lochs defence and the management team were getting frustrated, and itchy;  the flicking midges were out, can this summer get any worse? The Lochies started to have the odd raid forward and Don Wilson, brought out of retirement, was holding the ball up well and giving Point’s fresh faced new centre back, Iain “Maccarena” Mackenzie, a good run for his money! Indeed, after 32 minutes, a ball was played over the top beyond “Macca”, and there was young Ross Allison speeding on to the ball. Ally Lamont came out like a shot and all the yougster could do was hit the ball over the bar. Phew.

There was one more chance in the first half and once again it was Wally and his feet of flames that created it. He danced around a couple of challenges in the box before clipping the ball over Gordy towards the far corner.  It deserved a goal but alas, the crossbar was to come to the Maroons rescue and minutes later the teams trotted in for half time with the scoreline unchanged.

Half time
We urged the players to try and up the tempo, close down, use our better fitness, take more shots etc.  We know that in all probability the Lochies will  have 4 or 5 Select players back for the second leg so we needed a few more goals if possible. We also decided to use our wildcard, young United starlet Alfie Macmillan, who came on for another youngster Andrew Mackenzie, who himself had done well at full back.

No time for cakes, filled some water bottles, had a quick look at the Jock Stein Cup, (WHICH WE WON), and headed out for the second half.

Second half
Alfie was straight into the action at outside left and was showing some nice touches, combining well with Elliot and Daniel. After 53 minutes he was played clean through by Super Wally and only a fine save by Gordy thwarted the youngster, so close! 2 minutes later and Wally turned his man before unleashing a howitzer of a volley from 40 yards. What a strike but unfortunately it just cleared the crossbar (more of that later). Surely there was a goal coming.

The Lochies were then reduced to ten men when Craig Maclean was sent off for something he said. Could the Reds make the extra man count?

After 62 minutes Wally won a corner with some more sublime skills. Alexander swung in a beauty towards the back post, Elliot decided to header the post instead of the ball and there was a selection of heads, arms, legs and posts as the ball ended up in the back of the net. I think we are giving the goal to Alexander as it was a wonderful delivery, though I have my suspicions a Lochie head may have got the final touch. Point 2 v 0 Lochs (62mins)

2 minutes later and it was 3 v 0 when Daniel “the Spaniel” saw the ball and ran towards it with his tongue hanging out. As the corner came in from Wally, Daniel met the ball perfectly on the run and glanced it into the net, giving Gordy no chance. Cracking header. Daniel “the Spaniel” then ran into the net, burst the ball with his teeth and ran off with it in his mouth towards Seaview, but we didn’t mind. Point 3 v 0 Lochs.

It was a good spell for the Rudhachs and Alexander was next to threaten, when following a lightening counter attack, his shot went inches wide with Gordy rooted to the spot (67). The Reds then made a couple of subs, with Ian “Fish” Mackinnon replacing Macca and Andrew “Blackie” Black replacing Kevin Flower. The Lochies were forced to make a sub as Don Wilson was struggling with cramp. Manager Dave Macmillan, himself recovering from injury, came on in his place.

After 79 minutes Dave showed that even when not fully fit, he is more than capable of coming up with something special. The ball fell to him 40 yards out and he instinctively hit a thunderbolt of a shot, dipping and swerving towards the far corner. Ally Lamont went to catch it, didn’t quite get it right and we all watched in slow motion as the ball dropped just over the bar. Close one!

It was end to end stuff now as Macmillan’s introduction had galvanised the Lochies. Next to threaten however was Alfie for the Reds who hit a fantastic left foot volley which looked destined for the top corner before Gordy pulled off a wonder save. Frustration for Alfie and the Reds! (82). The final chance of the game went to Lochs and Ross Allison who saw his low right foot shot well saved by Ally Lamont before being well mopped up by Ally G who slid it to safety. Full time.

Point man of the match: Matthew Campbell had a great game at left back.

Moment of match: Jim O Donnell had turned up hoping to play for Lochs, having moved their recently. Unfortunately for Jim he was told you have to have been resident for 100 years in order to play! So Jim was making do with his half time cup of coffee when Wally decided to send a dipping volley just over the bar and into his coffee cup, spilling it everywhere! Probably not his best night ever!

Moan of the match: Midges

I was gutted I missed the celebrations on Friday. Having waited so long it would have been great to share the moment. Maybe not the Jaeger Bombs and test tubes the youngsters are in to these days but a wee dram would have been nice.

Match Report: Point v West Side (Cup Final) 12/06/15

Rudhachs Win the Jock Stein Cup

Point 1 – 0 West Side

Jock Stein Cup Final 12/6/15

After seven long yea/r/s without a trophy the sight of Stuart Flower and Donald ‘Spike’ Smith lifting the Jock Stein Cup, following a 1-0 victory over West Side, was a tremendous one for all Reds players, management, committee and supporters alike.

The Jock Stein Cup was the last trophy to be won by Point FC in 2008, when they beat Ness 3-2 in a thrilling final, and whilst this final will certainly not go down in that category, this will matter not one iota to anyone connected with Point.

The sides had met twice already this season with the Reds running out 3-1 winners at Garrabost in the opening game of the season, while West Side certainly got their revenge in with a 7-3 thrashing of Point in the Highland Amateur Cup on a night where the Rudhachs abject performance was only matched by the awful weather.

The final was played in almost perfect conditions on a calm, mild summer’s evening although the Goathill Park, like most on the island, was still suffering from the poor early summer weather we have been experiencing.

A large crowd had gathered to this eagerly anticipated final and following their earlier meetings, were expecting to see plenty of goals as both sides are very strong up front, with the Reds having netted 50 goals in their first 14 matches of the season.

Club captain Stuart Flower, who had been injured in the previous match, was gutted to have to sit out such an important game and he joined long term injury victims Andrew Murray and Scott Campbell on the sidelines. Influential centre forward Stewart Munro, working offshore, and young defender Angus MacDonald, on a school trip to Barcelona, were also unavailable for selection.

The opening few minutes were understandably cagey with few noteworthy moments as both defences were giving nothing away, snapping into tackles before any of the forwards could get into their stride.

West Side had more of the possession and territory in the first quarter and came closest to scoring when a nice turn by last year’s top goalscorer Innes Iain Morrison saw him break through the middle and shoot narrowly wide from the edge of the box. This was to be his only sniff of goal in the match as he was expertly shackled throughout by Elliot Rudall, who was playing at centre back for the first time this season, in place of the injured Flower.

Duncan Hunter had a fine run down the left wing, leaving his marker for dead, and broke into the box but his cut back was cleared to safety.

Both sides forced a couple of corners apiece but the delivery each time was found wanting and the defending team cleared with ease.

On the half hour mark a long floated Ally Gillies free kick found Elliot Rudall leaping highest at the back post but his header narrowly passed the post. This combination would come to the fore later in the match.

At the other end West Side wide man Ali ‘Barvas’ MacLeod was crudely blocked by Alec Lamb who became the first player booked.

The remainder of the half passed without much incident so the Reds went into the half time break at 0-0 and confident that with some small improvements and their strong bench that they could go out and bring the cup back to Point.

The Reds were given a massive fright in the opening minute of the second half as Ali ‘Barvas’ cut in from the right wing before unleashing a tremendous left foot shot that flew over Point keeper Alex Wright and crashed off the cross bar.

The West once again had the better of the opening exchanges in the second half and the reds backline had to deal with a couple of dangerous crosses from both wings.

Point gradually started gaining more possession and were getting more control of the midfield with Donald ‘Spike’ Smith being the key to this with his cool head and accurate passing. A real captain’s performance from Smith who was having one of his finest display’s in a red shirt against his former teammates.

With twenty minutes remaining Point made a couple of changes with Ruari Miller and Alexander MacDonald replacing Daniel MacLeod and Hunter respectively.

With just fifteen minutes remaining Point took the lead. A long diagonal free kick from Gillies was launched beyond the back post, where Rudall outjumped West Side keeper Peter MacAskill to nod the ball back into the danger area where Andrew ‘Mowgli’ MacLeod reacted the quickest to nod the ball into the corner. For the Reds bench and supporters this all seemed to take place in slow-motion as we all watched the ball head towards the net, before everyone erupted with joy as Mowgli’s arrival on the scene signaled a mini pitch invasion.

The injured Alec Lamb was soon replaced by Donald Gillies at left back and Stephen Campbell replaced Sam MacSween who succumbed to cramp after another tireless shift up front.

The expected West Side onslaught never materialised as every Point player stood up and won tackle after tackle, header after header as they felt the cup within their grasp.

The nerves were jangling for the Point contingent and they twice had their hearts in their mouths as first Rudall and then D Gillies came close to putting the ball into their own net.

The final whistle was greeted with huge cheers from all the Rudhachs present and the players finally could celebrate a long awaited trophy.

The man of the match award went to Andrew ‘Mowgli’ MacLeod who is having a great first season with the Reds after crossing the Broadbay divide.

Men of the Match: Andrew for his goal, the whole of the defence for keeping a clean sheet, Spike for an outstanding match, basically everyone!

Moment of the match: Time stood still when Andrew headed the ball goalwards.

Moan of the Match: We won so no moans, although the cup took an age to get presented as the microphone ran out of batteries. Poor Stu and Spike were left chatting to the ball boys for 5 minutes while waiting to lift the cup.

Final thoughts: Our Honorary Chairman Murdo ‘Biodan’ MacLeod was unable to attend the match as his wife Dolly sadly passed away that week. Deepest condolences go to Biodan and his family from all at Point Football Club.

Also get well soon to Murdo’s good friend and fellow ‘Grumbly’ John ‘Tonkan’ MacDonald who also missed the final due to illness. Get well soon Tonkan.

Match Report: Ness v Point 05/06/15

Finn “Worldy” Rescues a Point For Ness as Rudhachs Rue Missed Chances.

Ness 2 – 2 Point

(League Game 7) 5/6/15

Match Details Here

The Reds travelled to Fivepenny knowing there were in for a tough encounter against a Ness side who put 4 past Lochs on Monday.  Arrival on a windswept fivepenny  was met with the chairman asking did I want to come to social club for a drink….I would love to Malcolm but I’m driving, soft drink please.

Anyway onto the game… The Reds started well, although conditions were difficult for both teams due to the strong wind. Sam broke down the right after 3 minutes and tried to play the ball across goal, unfortunately he didn’t see wally, who was in space  for the cutback. In 6 minutes Point were awarded a free kick 35 yards out.. Up stepped Ali Gillies. One of the grumblies shouted “think about It Ali”. Ali obviously took heed and hit a powerful shot that the Ness goalie Gordon Kennedy could only parry and there was Captain “Marvel” Flower to  head home the rebound. Great start for the Reds.  Shortly after this Point could have been two up as “Mogwli”  broke from midfield and managed to get in behind the Ness defence, and narrowly shot wide. Point had most of the play and a scramble after a corner nearly resulted In another goal. Wally then had a shot from the edge of the box which Gordon did well to parry over. Point then won another free kick which Ali G struck powerfully but the keeper did well to hold it. Ness full back Ali Ness picked up a booking as the game started to get a bit feisty.  In 27 minutes Micheil caught Stu Flower which resulted in a booking for the Ness midfielder and unfortunately for Stu he had to come off with what’s look like a bad ankle injury.  Young Angus replaced Stu. Wally then hit a shot from outside the box which the keeper saved well from. Duncan “Borussia Monchengladbach” Hunter used his pace to get pass the Ness full back  and found himself clean through, he tried to dink it over the keeper who manage to get a hand to it and keep it out. Duncan pulled his hamstring in the process, Alexander then came on for Duncan. Coach “Stoodie” must have been wondering if he would have enough subs to see out the game! On 40 minutes Stephen ” sprinter”  Kettings was booked for a foul 25 yards from goal. The Free kick was flashed across the Point goal, with no Ness player on the end of it.  Just before half time Point got the second goal, a lovely through ball by Mogwli split the Ness defence and Ali “wally ” ran through to calmly slot the ball into the bottom corner. Two nil Point. Shortly after this Mogwli was clean through, he played it through the keeper’s legs  and then  appeared to be taken down. The Red Ultras shouted penalty,  The Ref said no penalty.  Ness keeper claims he got a touch of the ball, must have been the slightest of touches!!! Mogwli was booked for a late tackle and Ali G was booked for dissent just before halftime.

Halftime
I went to see if I could source some tea and cakes, unfortunately they only had alcoholic beverages on offer in the social club. (The point ladies do us a proud in Garrabost with the selection of hot drinks and cakes on offer)  Oh well wine gums it was. Willie” Sicknote” Macaulay text at halftime for an update. The assistant manager was happy with what he heard. Iain ” Makka ” Mackenzie was running the line and at one-point in the first half the Chairman told him: “You’re  a wonderful person Makka but rubbish at making decisions”.
Coach Stoodie would have wanted more of the same from the Reds for the second half.

Second Half
Ness pulled a goal back within two minutes of kick off, there player twisted and turned just inside the box and swung a good cross into the box and sub Innes Smith ghosted Into the box to head the ball into the bottom corner. Game on. For the next twenty minutes Ness saw some of the ball midfield without threatening Point to much. Young Alexander committed  a foul 35 yards out from which he was booked for. ( My notes say Alex booked,  never a booking). Up stepped Finn for Ness and curled a “Wordly” free kick into Alex Wright’s top left corner, Wrighty no chance, what a free kick. Quote from Coach Stoodie ” if that had been scored in the European cup final they would replay it over and over”. Take a bow Finn. 2-2 all to play for.  Mogwli was played clean through and slotted in the ball in bottom corner but it was adjudged to have been offside, close decision to call. Mogwli then fired a dangerous ball across the Ness goal but nobody was there to meet it. Ruaridh Miller then hit the post with a cross come shot. Ness nearly took the lead when there was a stramash in Point box but the ball ended up wide. “Titch”  had a shot which was comfortably saved by Alex. Point were dangerous  down the flanks with Sprinter Kettings and  Sam “goal machine” Macsween linking up well and  putting a fa few good crosses in the box but the Ness defence stood firm.  On one of Kettings runs into the box he seemed to be caught by a ness defender  Kettings stumbled,  but stayed on his feet. ( To honest Steven). Wally was proving a constant menace to the Ness defence. A few minutes before the end he latched onto a through ball only for the ball to take an unfortunate bobble on the edge of the box,  allowing the Ness defender to clear.  Ness had one final chance, a long ball was played into the box it broke to the Ness striker who struck the on ball target, but fortunately for Point,  Ali “think about it” Gillies was on the line to clear. Then in the last minute the most controversial moment of the game. Ali ” Wally Messi” Maciver beat two Ness defenders and broke into the box, and seemed to be clearly taken down by  ness defender, the Red Ultras shouted penalty but the ref thought otherwise and waved Wally to his feet. The Red Ultras were stunned!!  ( some strong words were said in Gaelic and English). The ref then blew for full time. The Red Ultras were bewildered as to why the penalty wasn’t given, they stayed to reflect a couple of minutes after the game as the Point players and staff couldn’t believe the decision either.

Willie ” Sicknote/ Chief Reporter” Macaulay   was not to happy either when I informed via text of the final score/ penalty claim. ( We look forward to having you back on the touchline Willie)

Coach “Stoodie” will have been disappointed not take all 3 points, having played very well and created enough chances to win the game and having two penalty claims turned down!

Moans of the Match: Injuries to key players, we wish Stu and Duncan a quick recovery. The weather, still blowing a gale into June!
Two penalties not given!
Coach “Stoodie” had a moan of his own: ” I ran into the moor to get ball for a ness throw and they scored ten seconds later  ” !

 Moment of the Match:  Even with the red tinted spectacles on, Finn’s free kick was special.

 Man of the Match: Ally “Wally “Maciver

Tuff choice as all the Point players played well, even with two injuries the subs slotted in seamlessly. Wally was a constant menace to the Ness defence, although a mention to Mowgli who had a great game in centre midfield and to Kettings who ran up and down from the Right Back position all night

U14 Cup Final

Kemnay Cup Final

Point U-14s take on Back in the Final of the Kemnay Cup on Saturday 6th June.  The Game will kick-off at 5pm on Smith Avenue All-Weather Pitch.

Please come along and support the juniors in this big game, we would love it if you all came!

Match Report: Point v Back 01/06/15

Prolific Point Batter Back

Point 5 – 1 Back

(League Game 6) 1/6/15

Match Details Here

On the first summer’s night of 2015 you would be forgiven for thinking that shorts and a t-shirt would have been the appropriate attire to wear to the game, but as it lashed down for the entire 90 minutes a survival suit and snorkel would have been more apt as Point entertained their rivals Back in the first Broadbay Derby of the year as the home side ran out comfortable winners in a convincing 5-1 rout.

FIRST HALF
Point made just one change from the starting 11 that faced North Uist as Alec Wright came in to replace Lamont. From the 1st minute it was all Point as they peppered Back’s goal with a few shots that went harmlessly over the bar. Point had an early penalty claim as Ally ‘Wally’ Maciver was brought down in the box but as Scotty Bomb and I strolled in 2 minutes late we were able clarify that it was not a penalty as we had a goal mouth view. The Point faithful only had to wait 8 minutes for the first goal of the game as Wally put a teasing ball in from the left that was just too far in front of Sam, but the onrushing Daniel ‘The Spaniel’ Macleod was on hand at the back post to smash in a thunderous right foot strike in off the bar leaving the Back keeper with no chance. The game continued in the same fashion as Back were struggling to get out of their own half and The Reds had another couple of attempts which never really troubled the Back goalie, but goal number two was soon to follow. From the edge of Wrighty’s penalty box, an expertly executed 70 yard cross-field pinger from Ali ‘G&T’ Gillies set Duncan ‘Janker’ Hunter on his way down the left flank. The in form Hunter showed good composure to slot the ball into the far corner with his left foot to score his 5th goal in 4 games. Keep it up Dunc!! Again the play was all Point’s as they pushed on looking for their 3rd goal and it arrived on the 30th minute when Sam was released down the right wing and a cross-come-shot found its way into the back of the net as the keeper tried to tip it over the bar, but instead helped it into his own net (must have been taking tips from Cammy Bell). As the rain poured down there was time for one more goal before half-time as ex-Backoch and ‘Bugsy Babe’, Mowgli Macleod, showed no remorse to the hand that once fed him as he scored a beautiful lobbed effort from the edge of the box. It was also noted though that, despite the stunning effort, Mowgli chose not to celebrate which I’m sure was a slim consolation for the 2 Back fans that were in attendance (either that or he was too cold to celebrate). The last incident of note in the first half was a booking for pantomime villain and ex-Reds striker Mo, as he was booked for diving (cue huge cheers from the Point dugout and stand).

HALF TIME
As I was catching up on my notes at half time, Scott Campbell offered to go and get us a coffee, which was greatly appreciated, although still I don’t know if this was out of the goodness of his heart or a minor peace offering for all the grief he’s been giving me about Rangers this season (more than likely the second one!). I was a bit disappointed he returned with no cake though as Lamont said there was a good selection on offer which included Twix flapjack, vanilla cupcakes and chocolate square! Daniel also said that tea was brought into the changing room at half-time, which went down a treat. Angus would have told the boys to go on and try to get a few goals as they were against a slight wind in the second half, although stressing the point to keep it tight at the back.

SECOND HALF
As the second half was about to start there was one change for the home team as Angus ‘Jonesy’ MacDonald replaced Stephen Campbell on linesman duties, Alec Wright made his way out of the Ionaid Stoodie centre without a spot of mud on his neon green top despite the conditions – a reminder of how dominant Point really were in the first half. The first 10 minutes started quite scrappy as Back tried to force the issue a bit more as they pushed Chris Moley into CM from CB and brought on Dave ‘Psycho’ Maciver to add a bit of steel to the team. The changes seemed to revitalise the away side as they scored in the 50th minute when youngster Stuart Macdonald received the ball and went on a dribble before lobbing Alec from 25 yards out, a great finish and gave The Blues a lifeline! Despite a positive start for Back, Point scored a 5th when Wally got in on the act. He went through 1-on-1 with the keeper and faked the shot before rounding him and finishing with aplomb! The game was essentially over as a contest after this and the only thing left was to count the amount of 1-on-1s Sam missed (I’m pretty sure the last count was 5, although feel free to correct me Sam!!) After been subbed off he was quoted as saying ‘I hate 1-on-1s’ which I feel was a fair summary of the situation. Coach Stoodie also noted that his only effort on target in the second half was his pass back to the keeper after the ball had gone out of play to allow an injured player to receive treatment! There was one last chance for Back though as a routine pass back to Wrighty trickled over his boot but he managed to just clear it away before Chris Moley got there, this was then followed by a chuckle and ‘I KNEW WHAT I WAS DOING’.

In the end Point thoroughly deserved the win and the only thing that could have disappointed them was that the margin wasn’t bigger with the amount of chances they had created.

MOMENT OF THE MATCH
The most pleasing aspect was getting a very convincing result in horrible conditions, the win took Point joint top of the table after other results had gone their way as we approach the halfway point in the season. (This was closely followed by Mo’s booking!!)

MOAN OF THE MATCH
Along with the weather it has to be Sam’s 1-on-1s, despite banging in the goals for fun of late, he could have gone home with 3 match balls by the end of it!! He must be saving his shooting boots for the must win clash with Ness on Friday!

MAN OF THE MATCH
Stuart Flower Power, there were a few contenders but since moving back to his natural position at CB in the last few games he has shone with his solid displays.

 

Match Report: Point v Lochs 27/5/15

Tough Rudhachs show bouncebackability!

Point 3 v 2 Lochs (AET)

(Jock Stein Semi Final) 27/5/15

Match Details Here

The Reds are through to another final!!!!!  After the disappointment of losing the Lewis Cup to the Niseachs in the final game of last season, the Reds will have another chance to bring silverware across the Braighe when they face Westside in the Jock Stein Cup final on the 12th June. In what was an epic battle, Red’s Hotshot Sam Macsween fired home the winner in extra time to inflict on the Maroons a first defeat of the season.

First half
Now , I wasnt actually at the game, being laid up at home with flu. That makes writing a report fairly challenging(!) but I think I have most of the main details and incidents from talking to people. I was hoping someone else might write something but I think they were all too knackered, emotionally drained, or illiterate.
The first half saw the Reds slightly altered formation combat the Lochies trusty 4 4 2 and the Reds were doing well, with Stu F reverting to centreback and Mowgli coming in to midfield. No Elliot ( chips won’t cook themselves!) or Stu M (oil won’t drill itself!) meant that the Reds were short a couple of world class players, though the Lochies were missing Graeme Mackenzie and Rob Jones, who are alright.

OK so the first text I got was after around 25 minutes and it suggested thet Lochs goalie James Macleod was up to his gogo gadget arms nonsense again. Wally, who was having a fine game, cut inside Nomie and fired a beautiful shot from 35 yards out, arcing high over the keeper. But James backpedalled like crazy before flinging himself upwards and getting a fingertip to it. The ball rattled the crossbar, bounced down and the returning Peter Mackenzie cleared just before Sam could get there. So close!
I dunno anything else about the first half but Ali G told me he hit the worst shot ever from 30 yards out at some stage of the game. Apparently it hit Apollo 16 and is currently burning it’s way back into the atmosphere.

Halftime
It was still goalless at half time which was good for the Reds considering our previous two games. If we could keep it tight at the back then we would surely make a few chances with the forwards we have.
Had a Lemsip.

Second half
Straight from kick off both teams looked like they meant business. After 48 mins Sam was played clean through with nobody anywhere near him. Surely this was the moment to beat James. Sam slowed down, steadied himself, and slowed down some more, and stopped. What to do?  Eventually Sam shot but it was saved by James as Alex Wright went ballistic at the other end . It was all to come good in the end for Sam.

Almost immediately the Lochies opened the scoring with a goal very similar to their third last week. Andy Murray laid the ball into the path of Nipper, overlapping from fullback. Nipper’s cross found Craig Maclean who’s header, whilst lacking power, had the perfect direction and try as he might, Wrighty couldn’t quite reach it as it went in off the post. Point 0 v 1 Lochs (50 mins)

This was gonna really test the Reds resolve, could they come back from a goal down after the tough week just past? You bet your cotton picking bahookie they could! After 62 minutes Alexander played a beautiful through ball to Duncan “Illgner” Hunter. Dunc gave the keeper “the eyes” – his words- and was about to shoot when Jim O Donnell made a last gasp tackle. Jim’s tackle played the ball against Dunc’s foot and the ball ricocheted into the corner, beyond a befudddled James. Yessssss.  Point 1 v 1 Lochs. Game on.

Five minutes later the Reds took the lead, when following a good advantage from Referee Maclean, Ruari Miller “time” chipped the ball through to Wally. Wally burst clear on the inside right of the box, before taking aim and firing in at the near post beyond James. Point 2 v 1 Lochs.(67 mins) We were ahead!! The Lochies were behind for the first time this season. Cmon the Reds.

As the game wore on and I flinched at any noise my phone made, I decided to do the dishes to occupy my mind. I wouldn’t look at my phone until 8:45pm, which would be about full time. Man I was sweating, for three reasons. The fricking soapy water was boiling!

So at 8:45pm I ambled through the house nonchalantly,  not a care in the world…… Check my phone. One text which reads “90 mins”. Sound, just a couple of minutes to hold on. Then this happened at the Roo Camp: David Macmillan got fouled around 40 yards out by the touchline. Dave floated the ball in, it was flicked on at the near post and there was Jim O Donnell to head home at the back post for an injury time equaliser. Noooo. Point 2 v 2 Lochs. Full time. Maybe it wasn’t to be.

Extra time

The Reds regrouped and started Extra Time with a bang as Wally slipped Sam through on the inside left channel. Sam took one glance before hammering the ball left footed beyond James and into the far corner, WHAT A STRIKE!! TAKE A BOW!! COWABUNGA!! Point 3 v 2  Lochs. Only another 25 minutes to go!! Noooo We never do things easy! Its like watching Andy Murray playing tennis, or Scotland playing anything!

Word has it that Lochs had most of the play in ET , with Point soaking up pressure and trying to hit on the break or take the ball to the corners to waste some time. Coach Stoodie was unhappy with how panicky the Reds were getting, urging them to take their time. To be fair to the lads they were better in the second period of ET and managed to see the game through to the end, when the Roo Camp erupted at the thought of another final. You beauty.

Point man of the match: Wally Maciver- Skillful and tireless display by the Garrabost Messi.

Moment of match: Sam’s winner, pick it out!!!!

Moan of the match: I figured ET would be finished and there was no word so I texted Coach Stoodie, ” is it over, did we win??” Five tortuous minutes later ” Penalties” Noooooo!!!! we always lose penalties. Minute later, “Only joking, we won 3 2” Phewwww.