Vista FC Vs FC Elmstead ( Away )

After a terrible loss last week it was important that Vista FC managed to rectify any running issues instantly. There were a few notable changes to the squad due to squad rotation and injuries but for a squad like Vista FC all squad members must be able to match the starting 11 in terms of performance. Andrew Dalhouse, Martin Onohua, Ashley Josephs and Souleman Karche were the main substitutes introduced as they have all featured from the bench over the last few games. Vista started the game comfortably playing out from the back and moving the ball well but with no real intensity. We were able to create opportunities but admittedly any spectators would have not been impressed had they known the level of performance Vista FC demand. Possibly 20 minutes into the game Vista FC managed to create some opportunities mainly through some great wing play from Ashley Josephs, Jordan Greaves and assistance from the full backs. Quite fortunately we were rewarded with an own goal when a low dangerous cross was unable to be cleared from FC Elmstead and deflected off one of their own into the back of the net. With the goal advantage it would have been the perfect time to use this as a platform but as they say ‘you’re most vulnerable once you’ve scored’. This was the case for Vista FC as a quickly taken free kick was on the half way line dropping behind the Vista FC defense into the path of the FC Elmstead striker who was brought down and rewarded a penalty. The penalty was converted and once again Vista FC’s resolve was too be tested. After last weeks defeat Vista FC had to remain calm and find a way to use the Vista blueprint to gather something from the game. The remainder minutes of the 1st half played out quite empty with a few shots but nothing out of the ordinary.

The second half started off quite similar to the 1st half and although both teams were still in the game there was nothing to get excited about. As the game continued Vista FC cut some frustrated figures. Vista then decided to make two substitutes in Ciro Donadio and Danny Bleach. For any manager needing two players to make an impact this was the perfect example. Every single battle in the middle of the park became a life or death situation. Every ball was challenged and fought for and finally for once in the game Vista FC was able to reach a level of performance that we are known for. Our high intensity pressing and quick movement of the ball led to Elmstead once again fouling on the edge of the box. A pinpoint delivery from the free kick from Andrew Dalhouse dropped onto Andrew Thompson’s head that finished with a composed header. It was nice to see Andrew Thompson score this goal as 2 weeks before he had a similar opportunity, which he missed. Vista FC continued to remain playing at 100mph and as a result the high intensity game matched with quality on the ball allowed Vista FC to get in behind the Elmstead defense and Andrew Thompson was fouled in the box. Siao Blackwood is determined to become a force in non-league football this year and it was evident when he retrieved the ball from behind the goal and stepped up to take the penalty and converted.
. It was great work from Andrew Thompson to win the penalty but that was one of his last involvements in the game as he was subbed off for Aaron Southard and not long after we saw the return of Victor Okisor who is recovering from a broken leg suffered last year against Kenningwell. It was a joy to see the players creating so many opportunities such as Danny Bleach opening his body up and placing a ball aimed for the top corner, which unfortunately only hit the crossbar. Victor Okisor was able to use his trademark speed boost and create real problems for Elmstead in behind putting in a great cross for Southard to narrowly miss also doing the same a few minutes later very unfortunately.
The game ended 3-1 and it could have been more but great credit has to be given to FC Elmstead who battled ferociously and made things very awkward for Vista FC. FC Elmstead have some great young players and guaranteed will become a great team in the coming years if they continue to build.

M.O.M – Ciro Donadio