FC Team A vs Oakwood A

Keith Goodman
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Mid-table rivals FC Team and Oakwood have the utmost respect for one another, but once that first whistle blows on Sunday, I expect both teams to go hell for leather in search of three points that could help propel them up the table.

Both teams have made solid starts in the league, but it’s the chance for one to kick on.

FC Team go into the game on the back of a 4-1 defeat in the London FA Sunday Intermediate Cup. Missing key men, the signs looked good when summer signing Declan Selbo put them ahead, but once their opponents equalised there was no way back.

David Grossman reminded everyone of his qualities in goal, but he’s looking forward to getting back on the pitch on Sunday.

Team boss Mitch Young was in fighting mood ahead of the game. He told JC Sport: “Oakwood are on an impressive run and have strengthened their squad over the year so I am expecting an extremely tough game.

“There is no doubt we will have to be at our best to get anything from the game, but I am confident that, no matter how good a run Oakwood are on, if we perform to the best of our abilities we can pick up a victory.

“We are in the mix in the right half of the table and every point this season really does count and every three points are huge. Attack may be the best form of defence on Sunday.”

The Oaks won a seven-goal thriller to progress in the Anekstein after edging out Premier Division rivals Brady last weekend.

Summer signing Carl Peters was the star man, in a tie where Brad Wine, Dan Ash and Raphi Bloom were also on target.

Ahead of their first meeting with Team this season, Oaks joint-boss Ric Blank told JC Sport: “I think Sunday is potentially our biggest game of the season. We know all about Team and have nothing but respect for what they've achieved over the years.

“But Sunday will not be for the faint-hearted - the boys are fit and up for it as ever. Team have had a good season so far and anyone that beats Hendon has to be treated with respect.

“I know they lost in the London Cup last weekend but I think they had quite a few players out (aside - has any MSFL team ever lost when they've had their full side out - if you read the JC each week you’d think not - but that's a different story!) so we’re up for a real test - possibly our biggest of the season.

“We have a good squad out as ever and whichever 14 we pick I back them fully to give it their best and do themselves proud - whoever they’re playing.”

There will be plenty of big battles all over the park. Oakwood will relish the challenge posed by taking on the likes of Selbo and Salmon up front, which leads me to believe that this game will be won and lost in midfield. It’s game on!

JC team news: FC Team hope to welcome back Jon Toby after four weeks out with fractured cheek bone. Jake Weiner, Ed Bloom, Ollie Segal and Jason Wood should also return.

Venue – Meadow Park, Ref – Keith Goodman

JC star man: Raphi Bloom (Oakwood)

DC Prediction: FC Team A 1 Oakwood A 1