Was it the pre-game routine, or lack thereof…the 3-5-2 setup, the colder weather, the clinical finishing and solid defense? Nobody knows or we would play like this every week.

Against a tough, diverse opponent with some North African magicians and Flemish greylocks the Vets-2 got their first win. Arthur in Goal, Alex, Brian and Paul in defense, Chris R, Bas, Freddie, George and Steve in midfield, Timme and Chris F up front.

We started nervously, no doubt under the influence of our regular slow-moving 'everything is a foul and offside even when it is not' referee. Not a single combination, wings not covered, some through balls but nothing pleasant to watch. Most of our attacks were stopped by offside calls however our opposition did not get into scoring position. Compared with previous weeks, the midfielders picked out opponents and followed them around.

First half AND second half. Defensively we did not have much to worry about with terriers Alex and Brian biting their foes' calves and Paul clearing whatever got through. The opposition got so desperate that at one corner they knocked each other out with first blood drawn. First aid was close and happy with the work.

Second half provided the entertainment ! Pete came on for Freddie and sprinkled the throughpasses. After a handful of chances in front of goal between Timme and Chris F which were kept out miraculously by the ageing goalie Timme got a free ball, cut inside and placed a low drive: 1-0 for the good guys.

Chris R found his voice and changed us to a 4-4-2 which is against modern football wisdom (keep the pressure on !) but we were going to defend this one. Arthur made 3-4 good saves on distant shots and Bas provided the best chance to the opposition by converting a cross into a shot over the crossbar. With 5 minutes to play we actually started to pass the ball, keep it, look for the wingers and actually play some football ! With our opponents looking for a penalty we stayed concentrated to the end and brought home our first win. Beautiful things happen when you keep a clean sheet !

Thanks subs Phil, Dermott and Kevin, I think Chris R was too busy trailing their number 19 to think about anything else but with a tense 1-0, what do you do ? Your support was noticeable and I am sure next week you will be rewarded against the league leaders.

And an official welcome to Steve for finally qualifying to play with us. If only he does not get snapped up by the footballing furnace…..

MoM: Timme