On a day that started pessimistically with the revelation that starting striker Luis would be unable to play, leaving the team with only ten eligible players, the Mighty Shane emerged surprise victors.
Shane players arrived at FuHe Park at about 2:00 for the 3:00 kickoff last Sunday as the rain started to fall. By kickoff, the rain was torrential, with large puddles forming across the pitch. Lightning and thunder could be seen and heard all around, as players from both sides convened near the center circle to discuss the situation with the officials. After much deliberation and delay, the game went ahead as planned.
Players from both sides soon discovered that the traditional methods of play would not work, as the conditions prevented any sort of passing on the floor. The football on display was quickly reduced to a feisty bout of punt and run.
Despite the limitations, Shane emerged as the dominate side of the match, pouring much offensive pressure on the Eagles' back line, and limiting the Eagles to long balls over the top and shots from range. It was not long before new player Adam Urban was cynically dragged down in the penalty area following an excellent run. Midfielder Zach Paruch made no mistake with the resulting penalty kick, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way and cooly driving the ball into the net.
After a brief let down following the goal, Shane resumed their dominance of the match. The team saw several of their best chances saved by an admittedly excellent Eagles keeper. Winger Matty Raitt was especially dangerous on the left, as was new player Jame McGuirk on the left of defense.
In the end, it was a much needed three points for the Mighty Shane. With any luck they'll be able to build on this result and press on in the coming games.
Shane will be back in action Sunday, May 15 at 4:00 at Fujen University.