Dynamo Convictus lined up against Eden Park Rangers in their second home game of the season hoping to collect their first 3 points. Another untypically scorching September afternoon saw the water bottles full and sleeves rolled up.
DC again started at a good pace, dictating the play with some slick and precise passing moves. Not many chances were created however with DC choosing to retain possession in the middle of the park instead of flooding forward.
Their patience was rewarded with Nick Letham scoring a sublime individual goal midway through the first half. Some nice footwork in final third enabled him to meander through EPR defenders before unleashing a powerful strike into the top left corner. 1-0 DC.
With the harsh sunshine beating down on Shortlands Park, both sides struggled to create anymore real chances in the first half. EPRs long ball tactics saw their speedy forward through on goal on one occasion but he lacked the conviction to convert and skewed the ball high and wide.
Half time: DC 1 – 0 EPR.
The second half produced much exasperation for DC with chances missed and injuries endured.
A lively Nick Thompson came close on a couple of occasions with Ben James blasting a ball high and wide from 8 yards. Again, with DC unable to convert chances, the lead was unfortunately lost half way into the second half.
Ben Nixon limped off with an ankle injury which saw a reshuffle at the back and, with Daniel Vincent picking up a knock, the midfield began to struggle to control the game.
EPR had increased the pressure as the half drew on and, after two or three fantastic blocks from Sean Beddow between the posts they finally stroked the ball into an open net with a rebounded effort. DC 1 – 1 EPR. Daniel Vincent then hobbled off with Kiel Roberts replacing him.
A few more important saves from man of the match Sean kept it at 1-1.
A make shift back four held their own with impressive displays from James Callow and Steve Gallagher in particular. Michael Beddow produced another good performance, this time patrolling along the left-hand touchline with Daniel Vincent and Scott Manzi, for large parts, dominating the centre of the park.
With some unfortunate injuries and a lack of squad depth on the day, the match ended with a frustrated Dynamo Convictus feeling they should’ve won. However, DC again showed their ability to play good, positive football and, in only the team’s second ever-competitive game, they should take many positives home with them.
Roll on the Kent Cup opening round this week!
VIVA CONVICTUS
