MATCH REPORT

White Ensign Reserves 4 v Epping Reserves 2

Epping Res produced a good display but eventually lost 4-2 to White Ensign Res who were better organised and fitter. It was not surprising as there was only one starter this year from Eppings team from the previous season and this was the first time they had played together. It was an entertaining game with both teams playing football on the deck. Epping went ahead early in the 1st half from a free kick. A good cross from McKenzie found Albright who powered a header in from 15yds. Within a few minutes Ensign were level from a free kick. The Epping defence were static and allowed a free header in the penalty area from Ensigns centre half. Epping were still playing good football through McKenzie and Labadie who were controlling the centre of the park. Epping  took the lead midway through the half, McKenzie split the Ensign defence with a precision pass finding Mauro who ran from deep beating the offside trap. As the keeper advanced Mauro waited for the keeper to dive and chipped him with the outside of his foot into the empty net. Epping had not learned their lesson after going ahead previously and conceded another sloppy goal a few minutes later. Epping were caught out at the back and as the ball was played across the 18 yard line no one took responsibility, keeper Gull managed to get hands on the ball, unfortunately knocking it to a on-rushing midfield player who powered a shot into the empty goal. The game was evenly balanced and Epping looked dangerous from corners and freekicks. Ensign took the lead a minute before half time. Ensign winger cut in from the wing unchallenged and laid off the ball to a supporting player who scored from 12 yards with a well struck shot. The second half was an even affair until Ensign stretched their lead midway through the half with an identical goal from a free kick. Again the Epping defence stood static and allowed the Ensign centre half to head unchallenged. Epping ran out of energy and fitness and were unable to get back into the game and only created one further chance in the second half which resulted in a corner. This was a good display with great team spirit and commitment however the team will need to improve in fitness, communication and personnel responsibility to do well in this league. McKenzie and Mauro best for Epping.

Team: Richard Gull, Glen Shurety, Paul Kairis, Greg Duigan, Sean Garwood, Tony Whiteway, Mark McKenzie, Zee Labadie, Danny Mauro, Jerry Albright, Dave Doig.

Subs: Dave Rodden, Gary Campling.

Scorers: Albright, Mauro.

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