matchreport - 17-Apr-10 - latini v. scc
Team SCC
Author Owen Monaghan
line up
Star – Azran, Bowden, Ong, Rogers – McCarvel, An, Anderson, Alonso –Donovan (Goerojo), Hutcheon
 
The Cup Final for SCC!
n
Pre-game was once again on a sad and emotional note, with a minutes silence to pass on our thoughts to our friend Mehdi and his family. Thanks to Latini and referees for respecting this, it is very much appreciated.

SCC vs. Latini is always a game to look forward to and mark in your calendars, but when it comes to the Cosmoleague Cup Semi-Final (when you add to it this cup flavor - only one step away from the final) it is for sure one of the most exiting games of the year with loaded emotion, passion and excitement!
n

n
A nice afternoon for a 5pm kick-off at the Padang. Latini showed up in numbers on and off the pitch, on time and ready for the battle. SCC was little in number indeed, but with quality all over. Captain Rogers was up for it and in truth we all were for what remains one of our main objectives of the season.
n

n
The game started quite well for SCC and we played as per the last few weeks. Loads of movements on and off the ball, quick and short passing game instigated by An and Anderson's technical skills, going wide to get crosses in with Azran and Alonso, putting Latini under pressure all over the park and with no time on the ball. Combinations in midfield with Rogers and Bowden lead to a few shots from the men in yellow, but the opener came from a corner kick. Latini's defense did not manage to clear the ball well enough and after a few re-bounces McCarvel was sharper to get it in, 1-0 SCC. Our back 4 was managing in defense, dealing with a long ball game played by the Latinis who were looking for a quick equalizer.

SCC was still playing better football toward the end of the half, finding Donovan and Hutcheon on the feet upfront, but with no luck. Second goal came after another corner kick and this time Ong was quicker to head the ball into the net, 2-0 SCC.
n

n
2-0 half time and not much work between the sticks for Star. Coach and captain were happy with the 1st half display but insisted to remain focused, with Latini going to work even harder in second half to come back in the game, therefore we needed to step up and work even harder!
n

n
Second half to start a little slower than the first and SCC trying to keep control and possession. SCC was mostly dangerous on free kicks after many of Latini's fault by trying to cope with the tricky balls from Alonso and An, but these chances were not converted. Latini was dangerous on the fast break and on one of those took the chance and was back in the game, 58' 2-1. SCC had to start playing again, get composed on the ball and work hard to secure the game, while Latini had all hopes to get the equalizer.

Rogers was leading the wake up call, and a few more chances were created by the men in yellow, Hutcheon only to be denied by the post after a great and smart strike, unlucky. The break was to come from another corner kick when Alonso delivered the ball to McCarvel, who made no mistake and headed home, which is with no doubt his trademark! 81' 3-1 SCC, and all thought the game was over. It is underestimated Latini's fighting spirit, and after another fast break and good move, Star was left alone and only able to deny the striker twice before finally conceding, 87' 3-2. The last few minutes were a midfield battle and SCC was happy to hear the final whistle.  
n

n
Again and in line with the past few weeks, a very solid performance by SCC, and even if the scoreboard seems tight, this is a well deserve win for the men in yellow that all in all were always in control, taking most of the initiative of not giving an inch to their opponents all over the park, unless a coupe of a well taken fast break. A spirited performance from Latini, who never gave up and tried to get the game their side right until the final whistle. Thanks lads for a good game, with high intensity and played with a fair and positive attitude.
n

n
Also big thanks to the linesman and Brad as referee. Solid game as usual, letting the game flow and able to keep the game under control when passion is getting a little strong. Quality.
n

n
MoM could go to each and every of the SCC player on the day, everyone was focused on his piece of work, and doing the extra bit for the team, but it goes again to McCarvel. Whether playing as right wing or up front make no difference, impact on the offensive play of the team is huge, and scoring 2 decisive goals once more! Mate you are such an asset for our team, and definitively one of the best strikers in the league!
n

n
While celebrating the victory, we got to know that we will play against the Hotspurs in the finals for what will be with no doubt an even more passionate game against a very strong side. Cannot wait!
 
Scribe: David Alonso
latest news