Island Bay United AFC

On Saturday Island Bays Premier squad had a show down with Tawa, who were going to come out onto Redwood Park fresh off a Hilton Cup Final win, and looking to avenge their 2008 season (we won and drew with them which hampered their push for 1st place).

In blustery condition, neither team could dominate, with possession, and composure, swinging both ways constantly during both halves of play.

Numerous offsides, and slicing clearances by both teams re-iterated that it was the first game of the season. Each team tested the keepers a few times, but we entered half time locked at 0-0.

In the second half, Island Bay seemed to cope well with Tawa's re-invigorated attacking prowess, and created many chances of our own, just lacking the final killer ball in Tawa's final third. It seemed the game was destined for a draw, but then a deft cross was met well by one of the Tawa players, and it took a line clearance by Mike Jessitt to keep Island Bay's head above water.

A few substitutes later, and into the final ten minutes, a dangerous through ball to David Rutherford was met with a clumsy sliding tackle, leading to a spot kick for Richard Steel to smash into the corner in his usual calm style, finally breaking the deadlock.

Tawa's late push for a draw in the dying minutes tested the resolve of the Island Bay defensive system, but it was not to be Tawa's day, and the Referee blew full time at 96 minutes to a joyous victory cry from the Squad and Bay Faithful!

Next weekend is Easter, with Island Bay hosting Lower Hutt City on Saturday, and playing away to league newcomers Stop Out on Monday. Come and show your support as we try and win six more points!

Go Sharks!

Labels: away, tawa, won