Bruised and Battered, but not broken or beaten…

Captain Dave sinks AC Fiorentina and the Missiles escape with a 1-0 win!
Running on empty tanks and with a limited bench of only 2 members, the Missiles knew they were in a battle from the get-go. However, knowing that the prize is an important 3 points to stay in a battle for promotion, the boys came through with a second half marker from their appointed Captain Dave to escape with the 1-0 win.
On the bright side it was nice to see Roy once again juggling a ball and going for a light jog in anticipation of his return next week! On the other side though our squad was missing its top goal scorer Lagacé, as well as important mid field contributor Maguet, and the fleet footed defender Dale, the depleted bench was marked through this tough match with the AC Fiorentina squad.
The contest was evenly played in the first half with both sides having opportunity. Missiles had the wind along with several good chances, however nothing could find the twine for the visiting squad. Forwards Jeff Simes had several excellent runs however had difficulty beating the equally bulky and swift defender, while Joe made several dazzling moves and fired several volleys towards the net only to be denied time after time. The mids were utilized as well to create several chances, especially a couple of long runs by Dave K and open field for Vin, but it still resulted in a nil-nil draw at the half.
Once again the home team showed up to play, and AC Fiorentina began to take over the play in the second half. The Missile defenders seemingly played far back with the mids guarding in front. The Missiles stopped chasing the ball and waited for the AC attack before preventing several chances before they were directed on goal. Clayton in particular made an excellent slide in front of a shot that sailed over to prevent a goal from an imposing AC player. Few excellent chances were granted to AC and Don the Keep kept them at bay with several spectacular saves to keep the home side scoreless.
Our boys were also not without there chances, and halfway through the second a brilliant strike was finished which proved to be the winner. Captain Dave Kostelnyk dribbled the ball around outside the opponents 18, and then apparently once again moving out to the right-side in order to make a cross to an open Missile (the imposing Patton presence in front of the AC goal), Dave instead pivoted at the corner of the 18 and fired a shot into the wind which fooled the keeper and dropped just inside the far post for a magnificent marker! Jubilant Missiles erupted and AC was devastated.
AC then carried most of the play, moving the ball around the horn and up to the mids, but still they could not capitalize. The Missiles defensive squad whom were subbed several times during both halves due to suffering various ailments, kept strong and held the home team scoreless.
After the final whistle out squad quickly congratulated their player of the match – Don the Keep – and then disappeared to the friendly confines of the Pony Corral for a few post game beers and nachos.
As the seemingly never-ending road trip continues, with our fifth game of six-in-a-row on the road, the Missile will play this Friday at the Waverley Soccer Complex against a new opponent – the King’s Head Knights. Thanks again to the fans in attendance and hope to see everyone on Friday for another exciting encounter.

celebrity post - Jim Patton