FirParkCorner FC 2 Kaisayr 6

Pre match planning

Both sides made an energetic start and Moonie won a penalty on five minutes. He reacted angrily to the Kaisayr players’ thigh high challenge and was sent off for a couple of gentle shoves. While this was technically the correct decision, it seemed very harsh for an IFA game. If every mild disagreement was to be handled like that, most game would end up seven a-side. Mark tucked away the penalty after the defender was not booked for the original tackle.

From then on, it looked inevitable that Kaisayr would win. They surged forward looking for an equaliser and it was not surprising when they levelled the score. After finding the net, they eased off the gas a little and FPC managed to hold their own. Indeed, FPC missed a great chance when John had a solid shot well saved.

The FPC legs were beginning to tire near the break and Kaisayr took the lead moments before half time. A scramble in the box was not cleared and someone eventually had a free shot into an open net.

FPC made a great start to the second half and were level within minutes. PJM did well to win the ball at the goal line and his cut back was hammered in by John with the aid of a deflection. Sadly FPC lost concentration immediately after scoring and Kaisayr regained the lead almost straight from kick off.

Del in action

However, the turning point of the match was just about to arrive. PJM was racing clear when he was hauled back at the edge of the penalty box. Inexplicably, the referee did not even speak to the offending Kaisayr player when if the deserved red card been shown, FPC would have been right back in the match. The free kick was blocked and from then on Kaisayr never looked in danger.

Playing with ten men for so long was beginning to take its toll on FPC and Kaisayr added a few more goals to the scoreline. Kaisayr played some nice football the match was effectively ruined as a contest within five minutes. FPC will be disappointed with losing but can take heart at the effort that they made.