Island Bay United AFC

A hard fought battle resulted in Island Bay's first premier loss of the 08 season.

Island Bay started well, attacking Wairarapa down the flanks, and creating lots of problems, but failing to get clear shots on target. Hicham finished a clinical strike, only to be denied yet again by the assistants flag.

Wairarapa settled down and started attacking, floating balls into Peter Rabo to knock down for their other lightning quick striker to run on to. Rabo scored when the ball was crossed to the edge of the penalty area and Shaan couldn't punch clear, leaving an empty net which the ball bounced into. 1-0 HT.

The second half started with Wairarapa dominating possession in their half, and trying to play the long ball through to their fast strikers. One of their fast breaks opened our defenses up, and I gave away a freekick about 25 yards out. Rabo again stepped up for Wairarapa, lofting the ball over Shaan, and giving them a two goal cushion.

We settled down, changed formation to attack them more, and a nice fast break led to Hicham being brought down in the box. He misheard the ref, didnt wait for the whistle, and put the ball to the right, beating the keeper only be told he'd have to retake it. He did the exact same thing again! On the third attempt he waited for the whistle, and slotted home in exactly the same place as before. 2-1.

Island Bay sent wave after wave of attacks at Wairarapa, but we couldn't find the equalising goal, and time was our enemy, running out before we could even things up.

This week we play Miramar at Centennial Park, and will turn up with our minds focussed on a return to our winning ways.

Go Sharks!

Labels: away, lost, premier, wairarapa