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30th April : MS Charity Match proved to be a Winner With the last game of the season out of the way, the season was completed in style with a charity game with our good friends at Lonsdale F.C as we raised money for MS. The final amount raised shall be announced confirmed at the league's AGM. The game was a complete success and the game was played in a friendly manner as all games should be. With roll- on subs, everyone got a game. Lonsdale didn't have all their players available so we "loaned" three of our stars to them. Paul Hill and younger brother JJ Hill were loaned out as was Asif Khan, with the strict instruction of not to score against us. It seems JJ didnt hear these instructions as he caused problems from the wing. The first half was even, possession wise but Esprit created most of the chances, with Andy Hollick creating a couple of decent chances, and Neg somehow missing from close range, Tolga slipping at the crucial moment and Martin's effort sailing just wide. The only shot on target was from holding midfielder, Stuart Greenhill, who almost registered his first goal for the club with a bullet header from a corner with the Lonsdale keeper, Tony Keifer clawing the ball out at the last moment. Just before half time, player manager Runo, lobbed the keeper from 30 yards out but it also just cleared the crossbar. Lonsdale were fairly quiet overall, but it was pretty entertaining overall, even though both sides went into the interval without a goal. In the second half Lonsdale scored first with a shot from Albanian Albert which went in off the crossbar. It was their first effort on target and was a bit harsh for Nick Hanson who has improved with every game under his belt. But it wasnt long before super sub JT back from his mini break came on and set up Tolga for his 13th goal of the season. Taylor's right wing cross found TK who drilled into the bottom corner, as he claimed the top goalscorer title for the first time in his career. Neg missed from 2 yards out hitting it over to add some comedy and earn some stick. With 5 minutes left Lee Mitchell scored the winner with his second goal in so many games. Quite impressive for a left back. Even though Esprit won 2-1 the real winner was the charity. A real credit to both sides and the league.The charity game raised £150 for that single game and received a standing ovation at the AGM meeting so full credit to both sides. Hopefully Esprit will be involved in raising more money for charities in the near future. Its about giving something back to the community. So congratualtions to all the players. Well done everyone !!! |