The game began brightly with the Ghosts coming quickly out of the blocks. Their early play was, however, somewhat confused and irratic. Despite a few good runs, and some slick passing, the Ghosts soon fell behind. The experience and fast movement of the opposition undid the Ghosts who found themselves 3-0 down at half time.
A quick chat from Tom Stewart reinvigorated the troops who came flying out of the traps after half time. Within moments emergency loanee Ollie Lauria had reduced the deficit with a low placed shot. The Ghosts heaped on the pressure, but some great saves from the opposition keeper prevented them from increasing their goal count. As they surged forward, the Illusionistas left their defence open, leaving Stewart to mark several players. It could be said that Miller was particularly to blame for overly offensive play at this point. A few quick goals in succession made sure that the Ghosts would be starting with a defeat. They did not go without their chances, however, and Crossingham hit the woodwork on a number of occasions, Lauria going close and Miller shooting just wide several times.
A tactical adjustment allowed keeper Rob Gill the opportunity to canter out of his box and join in with general play. This gave the Ghosts more options to haunt the opposition box. One of Gill's mazy run's from goal culminated in him being fouled in the penalty box. Despite Miller tapping home the resulting rebound, the ball was called back for a penalty. Taker Crossingham later admitted the two-step penalty rule played on his mind. This was evident as he blasted over.
As the ghosts continued to press, the opposition became visibly tired, allowing the Ghosts more chances to haunt the goalkeeper, notably when Miller rounded him, only to have his shot cleared off the line for a corner by the backtracking defender.
Gill's runs were a highlight of the later part of the game, especially when he nonchalantly dinked the ball past an onrushing forward. These runs, however, left the goal empty and Red Snapper completed their rout with an 8th.
The Ghosts continued to fight until the end and Crossingham got the goal he desired in the dying seconds, smashing low into the net. His delight at the goal was so great, several players questioned whether his priority was personal glory rather than team victory. Nonetheless it was a deserved goal for the Ghosts who were not as bad as the result suggested.
As the game finished, Ralph Miller remarked, "Whilst I'm not happy with the result, it was our first game and I think we can build on the positive aspects of this game. If we had been more defensively astute we could have got something from this game". He continued saying, "I think we've learned a lot and we will be better next week. Lets go to the pub and play itbox".
The team didn't have beginner's luck, but like a drunken man playing itbox, they'll come back next week and probably lose. And do it again and again, until they're homeless.
Ghosts Line-up:
Gill; Stewart; Miller, Lauria; Crossingham
Goalscorers:
Lauria 1
Crossingham 1
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