X-S FC 0 - 1 Vanguard

An unfortunate game for X-S FC as they lost their last GAFL Challenge Cup group stage match against Vanguard. X-S had a good control of proceedings from the get go, coming close on a few occassions as they restricted the opponents to long balls only. 0-0 at half-time and the huge turnout meant that changes had to be made to ensure playing time for all.

The second half started with differently as X-S switched from 4-5-1 to 4-4-2. Vanguard started to launch attacks on a more consistent basis as X-S struggled to get out of their own half. This problem was compounded as our two centre backs failed to adequately handle the opposition striker who came on at half-time and he rifled in a shot from close range after riding two challenges from the X-S defence.

This sparked a change in tactics and substitutions were made as X-S needed to take the initiative. The biggest flashpoint soon came about as Mat Nur hooked a shot at goal after the keeper had spilled a cross. The player on the line subsequently stretched out his right hand and clawed the ball away. X-S were up in arms and screaming at the referee who claimed to not have seen the incident. Chewy was the only one left playing football on the pitch as everyone else was in disbelief. An off-the-ball scuffle also resulted in yellow cards for both players involved.

The game ended as X-S piled on the pressure but nothing materialised. Thoroughly unfortunate, but this is football and luck simply wasn't on their side.

Nevertheless, a very even game as both sides seemed equal to each other. The unfortunate series of events meant that X-S had nothing to show for their efforts that Sunday morning.

Heads up lads. A fantastic performance and nothing to be ashamed of. We can be proud of how we played and conducted ourselves in the aftermath of the incident. Also big thank yous to those who came to support, even without getting any gametime. Promise that chances will come soon as this coming weekend, X-S face Meirda at Canberra.