Having given a good account of themselves in the recent Cyril Anekstein Cup clash against Hendon United A, RC UK approached the tie with caution, playing five defenders throughout.
Markiewicz had set up his team to “sit deep and counter-attack” and the tactics “worked to perfection”.
Oakwood’s attacking players struggled to make an impression against the minnows who were superbly marshalled by Aaron Luftig, Yisroel Lewis and Gideon Caller. In front of them, Avi Mocton, Dudi Edryei and Eli Shebson kept Oakwood at arm’s length for much of the game. They were well-organised and fiercely industrious. And when the chance came, they took it in great style.
Gideon Caller played in winger Jonti Aremband on the half-way line. Aremband left three Oakwood players in his wake before letting fly with a fizzing drive from 20 yards that beat Dan Cohen and nestled perfectly in the bottom corner to end Oakwood’s cup hopes for the season.
Markiewicz was remarkably calm after the final whistle. He said: “We are fourth in Division Two and have just beaten a team who lie third in the Premier. Oakwood have the best defence in the league and have lost only two matches this season. Am I surprised by the result? Absolutely not.
“There are no additional superlatives I can use to describe my incredible team. I think the result and the score-line says it all.
“Oakwood probably had around 75 per cent of possession but for all of that possession, we had the better opportunities. Oakwood didn’t have a single clear-cut chance from open play. They were reduced to efforts from corners and pot-shots.
“We now have no excuses when it comes to any team in our division.”