Well, 15 goals in two matches and all that without our top goal scorer. The general consensus is the Hibs are playing a more measured, expansive game and he will struggle to get back into the team. Dan's pleas on a well-known social networking site were left unheard as the Hibs exploited the full size of the PSA pitch
The match started well against a understrength Dutch side (they beat us the last time in the Plate) with Big Phil scoring a first half hat trick in a performance straight out of grid iron. He first set up Tom (one of his 17 gilt edged chances) who finished off from 2 yards out after Phil had driven the ball low across the goal. This was a tricky chance, Tom and Buffy demonstrated this shortly after by missing from exactly the same spot. All 3 of Phil’s goals then seemed exactly the same. He tackles/defensive blocks the large Dutch defenders, they panic, he collects the ball, powers in to the area and smashes the ball straight at/under/through the keeper into the net. Repeat twice more. It’s also good to see some enthusiastic goal scoring celebrations; I think they must teach this at Glee club in American High Schools.
Half time and the manager asking for same again, whilst making a couple of changes. Gavin coming on for Ruari, who had used all his energy up and complaining that his pre-match meal didn’t have enough of the right carbohydrates, and Ollie for Nikko. The Dutch then scored, the Hibs defence playing a superb high line (we should do more of this) were underdone by a pass over the top which the Dutch midfielder smashed into the top corner denying Nick a clean sheet and the chance to save a shot.
Andy then came on for Phil, who had run out of energy and Kelso on for Owen. By now the Dutch had a very deep line (never a good idea on the PSA) and Hibs were attacking at every opportunity, Buffy finished off a move that actually resulted in a goal, by scoring from the edge of the area through a crowd of players. Andy then claimed it by being on the pitch and within 10 yards of it.
Andy made a 60 yard run (confirmed by the chip in his boot) rounded the defender and scored at the near post. This happened again 5 minutes later but this time by going round the keeper he was brought down. Someone else then took the penalty off him and scored.
Another Hibs attack allowed Gavin to score after a Tom had claimed that it was an unselfish pass, that or he remembered that he had just smashed earlier chance over the bar. Good finish from Gavin considering he had said he was injured and unable to walk but after securing advice from our hero, DotH, he was able to take the field. We should never forget the work he does for team spirit and charities in general.
Thanks to the Dutch for a good game and the referee/linesman were also good, they didn’t even give Andy offside during the game. It’s good to see that they understand how his pace can be confused with him standing in offside positions.
MOM went to big Phil for an excellent hat trick although Tom said in the pub he should get a mention for the 11 or so assists he made.
MOM for the Dutch to their goal scorer who was good throughout the game.