Mighty Shane 2-1 Triangle

The Mighty Shane grabbed a last gasp win for the second match in a row to keep building early-season momentum.

We drew 0-0 with Triangle twice last season, so we knew we would have a game on our hands. Even so, the message before kickoff was clear: this was one we should be winning.

First half: in control, short on chances

We started strongly and controlled possession, with the central midfield duo of Mitchell and Till dictating play.

Behind them, a robust and composed defence shut down counterattacks and played out well from the back, so we were never in any real danger.

However, despite being the better side, we again struggled to create enough big chances. It was a comfortable, if frustrating, first half.

Second half: forcing the issue

The onus at the start of the second half was on being more direct and forcing the issue. It paid dividends in the 52nd minute.

Jude broke forward and released Juan on the right wing, whose whipped cross caused all kinds of trouble for the Triangle defenders. It found its way to Ethan, who finished from close range to put us ahead.

As our confidence grew we created more, but could not quite finish our chances.

A sting in the tail

Then the heat and tired legs took effect, and we were soon punished.

During their only short spell of dominance, Triangle capitalised with a very fortunate goal from long range.

The 93rd minute

As recent results have shown, however, the boys' heads did not drop. Instead, there was a renewed energy to go on and get the win, and in the 93rd minute we did just that with almost the last kick of the game.

Seb's dangerous free kick towards the back post dropped for Ethan. He took a touch with his right to go round the defender, then unleashed an unstoppable finish into the far corner with his left.

It was a goal worthy of winning any game, and no more than we deserved for playing so positively.

Man of the match

Ethan's two very well taken goals were the crucial difference on the day, and he led the line assertively throughout.

Special mentions

Jude had a debut to remember, pushing the team forward on countless occasions from both left back and attacking midfield. He looks a gem of a player.

Till had an outstanding match alongside Mitch in the middle. They complement each other's games well, and it is a promising partnership to build on.

It was an excellent performance from the defence overall. Particularly impressive were Dan Dickie, who made a number of well timed tackles and got forward well, and Big Ali, who had his best game at centre back so far for the club and worked well with Danny to keep the Triangle attack at bay.

Looking forward

Two late winners in a row is becoming a habit, and a good one. If we can find that cutting edge a little earlier, we might even spare everyone's nerves next time.