Southgate Olympic V 5 – 2 OTFC IV [Senior Novets Cup]

OTFC 4s made the long trip to Clowes Sports Ground in the Winchmore Hill area of north London in a Senior Novets Cup game against Southgate Olympic. On this sunny but stunning cold day, the Tiffs did not have a clue what to expect out of the game, but came out of the changing rooms with the clear intent of putting out a good performance despite having a few key players missing.

The start of the match was quite balanced, with no clear chances in the first ten minutes. Slowly, the Tiffs took control with Zeki Akdeniz being a strong presence in midfield and Wes Bishop launching some brilliant passes towards Ed Lambourn and James Punter. Both used their speed and had a few good chances before Ed Lambourn managed to capitalize following an assist from David Dean.

After twenty minutes of play, the fitness level of the Tiffs started to drop, which allowed the opposition to get back into the game, and after a few chances managed to level things up after an attack down the left hand side when the Tiff’s defence was unable to clear.

The hosts took advantage of another chance against the run of play. The half time score was 2 – 1 to Olympic.

The Tiffs started the second half a bit better, but again fitness levels let them down. The Olympics scored twice more and put the game to bed earlier that expected. Despite a comeback from the Tiffs, who missed some unreal chances, along came a fifth goal. Nevertheless, Wes Bishop managed to convert a free kick just before the referee blew the final whistle.

Despite suffering the heaviest defeat of the season, there were some positive things the Tiffs will take from this game. First and foremost is having a strong squad where everybody feels motivated towards the ultimate dream – getting some silverware to Grists.

MOTM: Wesley Bishop