University Stallions 2 Vs Marist Cobras 2

The Stallions proved themselves to be the league's draw specialists with a 2-2 result against a spirited Marist side at Sodden Park.
Corey Bell summed up the pitch conditions with a prematch stroll around the ground, literally soaking in the atmosphere. The game looked unlikely to start, and just as the Stallions were considering retreating to a warm pub meal (well I know I was), Marist took to the field to 'warmup'. The challenge was laid down and the Stallions had no choice but to accept...

The match started with both goalmouths sitting under 10cms of water. Bell (complete with snorkel) took over the goalkeeping duties for the Stallions. Both teams had players sporting beanies and the opening whistle could not be heard over the gale force winds, horizontal rain, and roars of laughter. Neither side could believe they were actually playing.

McCleary finally broke his scoring drought on 15mins with a close range shot which created a torrent of water that travelled further than the ball. The Marist keeper was temporarily blinded by water and mud, as the ball trickled over the line. 1-0

The Marist team tried to play proper football, which was the wrong thing to do with the wind at their backs. The Stallions hoofed the ball at every opportunity looking to hit on the counter.
They were under the pump at times and there were some close calls as Wong cleared a shot off the line from a corner and Bell tipped a header over the bar from Aitofi.

Halftime saw the rain and wind stop dead...
McCleary bagged his second from some good build up play with a shot from 8yrds which took a deflection and found its way inside the right upright. 2-0 60mins

With the game seemingly in the bag the Stallions relaxed. A Marist midfielder went on a mazy run from the centre circle, straight through the middle of the field. His chipped shot sailed over Bell(who was up to his waist in mud). 2-1 75 mins

The equaliser came from a 30yrd free kick given on the left of the box. (Not sure who gave it away but they should be shot!) It hung in the air and beat the unlucky Bell (who was now preserved in ice). 2-2 81mins

Both teams came close to scoring in the final minutes with Aitofi coming closest, unfortunately at the wrong end of the field, his stinging drive hit straight at Bell.

2-2 a fair result and football was most definitely not the winner on the day...

Friday night football awaits the Stallions next round, with a perfect playing surface that will no doubt suit their 'total football' philosophy.

Attendance: 2.5