Another semi-final for the Fire

The Fire were in action playing Thatcham in the PHYL Cup semi final. It promised to be a cagey affair with two very evenly matched teams battling it out for a place in the final. Thatcham controlled the opening 15 minutes of the first half. The Fire defence had to be sharp in limiting the opposition's scoring opportunities. Shortly afterwards the team changed their formation by adding another striker to play two up front. This seemed to open up more room in the... midfield allowing the Fire midfield players more space. Fred took a wonderful touch, playing the ball into Danny James who darted through the middle to score the opening goal of the game.
The second half was another hard fought 30 minutes of action. Thatcham tied the game at 1 each with a deadly shot from 20 yards out. As the game neared the 60th minute, the Fire were again under pressure but defended superbly. The semi final victor would be determined by penalties. 1-1 was a good reflection of the game. The Fire had 7 shots on target and 7 shots off target. Thatcham had 5 shots on with 6 missing the target. Both teams worked their socks off!
Thatcham scored their 4 penalties whilst the Fire could only score 2. The Fire were unfortunate today and could not replicate last seasons Cup final success in the penalty shootout.
Player of the match was given to Harrie who was excellent in the heart of defence. He tackled hard breaking up plays, his timing and decision making was superb and his first passes to teammates from defence was on the money every time. Isaac played strongly in midfield controlling the play and 'play of the game' was Fred's control and touch setting up Danny's goal.
Well played by the boys who left it all out on the pitch but it wasn't going to be our day today. I'm still extremely proud of our boys. Another Cup semi final achieved to add to our Cup victory last season!