On a grey Sunday over in Northfleet, Phoenix Lions lined up for their first match in League B East following their successful promotion. Having not played for a month due to bad weather and the Christmas break, the Lions were eager to get going again.
The opposition were Ebbsfleet White, who had had a mixed season in B East in the Autumn so this was a good chance for the Lions to get used to the higher standard required.
The Lions started well and enjoyed a lot of possession. In a slight change from the normal positioning, Phoenix started off with Tom at the back alongside Charlie with Ben being pushed slightly further forward into midfield. Jason and Martyn had obviously seen something in training which they felt might be worth putting into practise. It worked a treat as on the occasions Ebbsfleet had the ball, Phoenix were quick to close them down and stunt their attacks. Tom seemed to be first to every ball with Charlie sweeping up behind him. Ben's natural instinct to defend meant he was also quick into the challenge and alert to the dangers.
Meanwhile further up the field, James and Archie were tying the opposition in knots with some silky skills.
The first chance fell to Charlie, who despite his defensive position, lurked on the edge of the Ebbsfleet box as Phoenix took a corner. As the ball came in, Ebbsfleet tried to clear and it fell for Charlie to smash a volley just past the upright.
Then shortly afterwards, in an almost carbon copy, from another corner, Charlie was unmarked again as the ball came across and he hit another beautifully struck shot just past the same place!
James then went close with an excellent free kick.
Midway through the half, Phoenix Lions were still well on top and the usual substitutions were made. Henry made himself busy as usual and was ably supported by Jack who was everywhere in midfield.
As half time approached, this combination led to the opening goal as Henry was played through and slotted calmly past the Ebbsfleet keeper. 1-0 to Phoenix Lions.
Half Time - Ebbsfleet White 0 Phoenix Lions 1
More changes at half time seemed to slightly disturb Phoenix and allowed Ebbsfleet to get into the game. They created several chances. But for every attack or shot they had, keeper Josh Anderson was equal to it as he had one of his best ever games in the Phoenix jersey.
Not to be put off by the Ebbsfleet pressure, Phoenix played on the break and had chances of their own. Archie continued to be a thorn in their side as he weaved his way through nearly the whole defence only to slip at the vital moment and then in the next attack, hit the bar with a neat shot from the outside of his boot. Jack and James also went close.
Determined to get the Spring season off to a good start, Phoenix held firm and the referee blew his whistle to end the game.
Full Time - Ebbsfleet White 0 Phoenix Lions 1
Well played Lions. An excellent start to the new season, carrying on where they left off before Christmas. Now the small matter of having to go back and finish their final outstanding game from League C East and see if they can clinch the title win.......Come on you Lions!
