TEAM: Mercelis - Lachai, Bernardo, Thom – Philpot, Hodgy, Lamarra, McGeehan, Gimeno Blanco - McGrath, Kellerman

SUBS: Donner, Deroeck

Once upon a time in early January 2018, a young group of still bagelless friends met to take revenge on some former professional football player (and his team) for a completely undeserved draw in their last match-up in 2017.

Arriving to the sweet memories of the "Go Auderghem” soundtrack, Richard was quick to announce the line-up. Following the usual cheers on the 3-5-2 and Kris’ fantastic haircut, the captain announced the comeback of one of the most bipolar striking duo’s ever to have played for the British. Nils and Tommy re-united up front. Cheers and anticipation followed by anxiety and doubt. Which way would it go?

Finally, following a probably excruciating warm-up probably led by Steve, the starting eleven thought that they were ready to take on Choule. Well, they should have thought twice. They went out there, playing some approximate passes, making approximate runs and shooting approximate shots on goal. Kris added to the unmotivated performance by clearly fouling their striker a couple of minutes into the game in the British’s own box alone through on goal. Clearly, the referee would have only one choice. Red card and penalty, but then again, it’s ABSSA, so no red card and no penalty - lucky Kris. Little did the Brits know back then, that a red card might have been the better option considering leaky Kris’ performances in the games to come.

Despite some slight improvements, the Brits went 1-0 down early in the first half and went frustrated into the half-time break. Clearly, the 2nd half had to be much better than the 1st half to come away with some points. And that’s what the squad did. The level went up significantly and the Brits played some neat football, combining well, creating good chances but still failing to score. Once Kevin has helped Daniel down from the tree, the subs came on and provided additional power. The goal was now in the air and finally came when a long free kick from James was missed by Dex and landed in the feet of Tommy. He swiftly turned and shot and a lucky double nutmeg later, the score was 1-1.

Ten minutes to go and everybody knew that three points are on the offer. Certainly, with the dynamic trio of Tommy, Nils and Daniel upfront it was only a matter of time for the winning goal. But their goalkeeper, making the performance of his lifetime, managed to clear Nils’ chip off the line, denied Daniel a goal and the British three points. That was not the start the Brits wished for in 2018, but who knows what this one point might be worth at the end of the Season.

MoM and Reporter: Tommy