FC were facing Bulli FC in a game that, if won, could see FC top the table for the first time since round 3. But Bulli, who were already top, are always a tough opponent and seem to grow tougher when facing Russell Vale.
The game started of slowly with FC uncharacteristically sluggish and the passes just weren’t hitting their mark as they have done in previous rounds. Despite that, FC got on the score sheet first at around the 15 minute mark with a Bulli clearance falling to Neil about 20 yards out. The ball was hit sweetly and nestled into the back of the net for 1-0.
An early lead is always nice, but Bulli were playing well and had a couple of opportunities to equalise, including two shots that hit the post. FC also had a couple of good opportunities to score but were unable to make them count. A stone cold penalty should have been given after a Bulli player pushed Damo out of the way of a great cross with the Keeper in no-mans land, but it wasn’t to be.
At the 40 minute mark, a handball in the box saw FC awarded a penalty. Chappo stepped up and with a well taken penalty scored what should have been the goal to take the score to 2-0. Unfortunately, despite the referee blowing the whistle to signify game on, the penalty was required to be retaken due to dissent from a Bulli player leading to a yellow card. The resultant attempt saw the ball cannon off the post and out – no goal, and the best yellow card that Bulli player will probably ever receive.
One nil at half time, and FC knew improvement was required if they wanted to win against a Bulli side that were there to compete.
The teams came out for the second half and it was Bulli who scored first from a penalty. While the penalty was debatable, with the FC player clearly winning the ball before any contact was made, what was not debatable was the finish, 1-1 and unfortunately no Russell Vale players were booked for dissent requiring a retake.
Bull then took the lead after FC lost possession 30 yards from goal and the ball was smashed into the back of the net. A nice goal…..
That stung FC into action and from that point on they had the majority of possession looking for an equaliser. A number of chances came and went, before Borce got himself lost and found himself high up the field in the opposition half. A great pass down the line to Aaron saw him in space before turning inside and hitting a low shot into the far corner of the net. In off the post, and it was 2-2.
FC continued to look for the winner, but were unable to prise open the Bulli defence a third time. The game ended 2-2 against a very competitive Bulli side. We’ll get them next round.
