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Crusaders go down narrowly

The Crusaders were narrowly defeated by RAF Icarus, 2-1, at the Aldershot Military Stadium on Monday afternoon. Report from Major John Rendall

One of the best Crusaders performances in recent times ended in agonising defeat to RAF Icarus with the winner coming from the penalty spot 4 minutes into stoppage time.

 

Fielding a very strong side, Crusaders settled well and the first twenty minutes were even with Icarus carving out a couple of half chances which never troubled the Crusaders goal. As the half progressed, Crusaders began to create more chances and came close as Catherwood was denied as the RAF keeper was quick off his line to reach the through ball a split second before him.

More good play saw Hanley shoot just over the bar from the edge of the box after a good McBirnie lay off. The best chance of the half came from a corner when Smith rose high above the Icarus defence but despite connecting well with the header, could not keep it under the bar.  HT 0-0.

 

A few early changes from Icarus saw them start the second half with more purpose and they edged the play for the first 20 mins and were rewarded with a goal when they were able to fire in from point blank range after a good cut back from the edge of the 6 yard box.

They could have extended the lead further but for an excellent stop by Frank from a close range shot and then, again, when closing down the striker when one on one.

Crusaders were still making chances and equalised with 10 mins to go. A counter attack from the back stretched Icarus and played in Hanley who committed the defender to play in McBirnie whose powerful, low finish across the goalie left him with no chance. Coming slightly against the run of play, the RAF were rattled and the following five minutes were spent in and around the Icarus box. A shot from McBirnie was well saved and the angle from the rebound was just too tight for Catherwood whose shot was saved.

 

With time running out a high ball into the box struck Pete King's outstretched arm and, despite controversy over the intent, the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Regrettably, there was to be no last minute heroics and the well struck spot kick could not be stopped. FT 1-2. 

A bitter blow to the Crusaders who, after a determined performance, deserved at least a draw against their cohesive and well drilled opponents.

 

It was evident that with a little more continuity and familiarity from such a strong line up we could have come away with a win.  There is a wealth of footballing talent in the officer corps and I urge players to continue to support the team through word of mouth recruiting and by making yourselves available for matches so that this potential may be fulfilled.  Playing football is great; playing winning football is better!

 

Team:

Frank; Greenfield, Smith, King, Miller; Catherwood, Moore, Williams, Hanley, McNaughton; McBirnie   Subs: Bamber, Harrop, Beard