8.10.23
Gorey Rangers 1, Spartak 0 (AET)
A depleted Spartak squad travelled to Wexford in the Leinster Junior Shield, only to fall to a goal scored with just four minutes of extra time remaining.
The pitch was in perfect condition for the afternoon kick off and the hosts looked dangerous in attack from the off.
Tackles by the home team were sharp and a less lenient referee might have brandished more cards.
Steve Grier stepped in as emergency keeper and handled well throughout. The home team tended to shot from distance and many of their efforts were off target. The remainder were competently dealt with by Steve, ably assisted by his defensive colleagues.
The Sky Blues put in a spirited performance against a speedy and spirited home team and worked hard right through the match and defended resolutely, with Rangers having the territorial advantage for most of the contest.
For Spartak, the best opportunities were when Stu Love looped an attempt on to the woodwork, Brian Long shot wide when Aaron put him through and then Mick Leslie’s powerful effort forced a good parry from the home keeper.
As energy faded and injuries kicked in, Spartak, with just one substitute, found themselves shorn of fit players and were holding out for the penalty contest; this was foiled by the late score. With just seconds remaining, and all Sky Blues in the box for a set piece, the ref blew for a handball infringement in the six yard box. Unfortunately it was against a Spartak player, and the final whistle blew immediately.
Form Report
Steve 9 Ollie 7 Andy 7 Ian 8 Niall 7 Stu 8 Neil 7 Aaron 8 Gary 7 Brian 7 Mick 7 Sub: Alex 6.
