CPR 1sts, full of positivity from the previous weekend’s victory over Pancyprians, trekked up to Yonkers this past weekend for their game against Lansdowne with high hopes. Lansdowne entered the game with a tidy sequence of wins behind them, needing a win to ensure their place in the knock-out stages; whilst CPR 1sts required three points to climb into second place in the league. With everything to play for, fans waited impatiently, and bravely given the miserable weather conditions, for a thrilling affair.
The game began with a high-tempo and both teams had shots on goal in the early exchanges. The difficult playing conditions were evidently frustrating both sides; however, Lansdowne settled quicker and then began imposing their game on CPR 1sts. The game stayed tied until approx. 30 mins in when – with the run of play – Lansdowne broke the deadlock, and another goal put them 2-0 up before the half-time whistle blew.
CPR 1sts re-grouped during the half-time break and returned to pitch reinvigorated, but unfortunately any hopes were then dashed quickly as Lansdowne grabbed a third. Later came a fourth and fifth goal for Lansdowne, allowing them to close-out another win and secure the conference title in style. They look to be strong contenders in the play-offs and also have their fingers in the National Championship pie.
For the deflated CPR 1sts, all is not lost. Whilst this proved to be a setback, yes, CPR 1sts challenge for the second play-off spot remains strong with a few games still to play.
…and with that, it is onto the next game we go!
Squad: Ben, Conor, Riso, Mike N, Pat, Justin, Shane, Nick, George, Edgar, Dan Z (Subs: Haakon, Alex, Carlos)