JC MSFL DIVISION FOUR
ATHLETIC BILBAUM 2 NORTH LONDON RAIDERS C 4
Strikes from Adam Newton, Matt Greene, Rob Samuelson and a stunner from James Franks helped North London Raiders C make it two out of two following a six-goal thriller against Bilbaum in Hampstead.
A disappointing opening home game saw the dejected crowds heading home early from the upper tiers of the recently expanded Berne-Baum stadium.
The game was a well contested affair, with Bilbaum coming from behind, with strikes from Green and Pasha to take a 2-1 lead at the break.
"The second half was a different story however with an organised and determined Raiders outfit running the show and displaying the greater hunger at the key moments.
Raiders soon found themselves ahead after converting two corners in quick succession, followed by a wonderful long range shot after the Baum midfield went missing.
Despite a stronger finish and couple of close chances from Bell and Berkley, there was to be no late drama on the Heath to win back the unsettled and disapproving crowds.
Bilbaum's scorers were Ed Green and player-manager Mark Pasha.
Raiders assistant-manager Richie Abrahams told JC Sport: "I couldn't be more delighted with the result today and to be able to report back a decent team performance to the gaffer.
"After a couple of controversial incidents and going in at half time 2-1 down, the lads showed fantastic character to keep their heads and come back with three goals in the second half.
"Bilbaum are clearly a very good team having won their first two games of this season and after last week's triumph against SPEC it's another great win.
"A special mention has got to go to James Franks for his audacious 30-yard screamer which sealed the win. A great way to top off a resilient performance."
Bilbaum boss Mark Pasha told JC Sport: "Overall it was a competitive game with both teams creating chances.
"There were definitely positives to take forward, as well as plenty of things to reflect on and work on in training this week."
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