A late goal from Roy Bihi Zenou inspired England FC to a thrilling 3-2 victory over Real Jerusalem in the Olim League in Israel.
January 29, 2014 11:56OLIM LEAGUE
ENGLAND FC 3 REAL JERUSALEM 2
A late goal from Roy Bihi Zenou inspired England FC to a thrilling 3-2 victory over Real Jerusalem in the Olim League in Israel.
The game started out evenly enough, with Real looking to continue a fine run of form and England looking to improve on last week's draw.
After struggling to get their passing game going, England, driven by Nicky Plotnek and Kalms in centre midfield, took hold of the match. They capitalised on some loose passing with an excellent counter that ended with a great solo goal from Gabi Balulu.
Real responded well as England ended the half on the back foot. Jerusalem went close several times but their pressure told on the stroke of half-time when a short free-kick was fed to centre-back Tomer Amos who fired home from distance.
There was little to separate the teams in the second half. Real enjoyed slightly more of the possession, but England looked dangerous on the break.
Real forged ahead on 65 minutes, Yacki Duwek converting a speculative 50-yard free-kick that sailed over the England keeper.
This time, it was England's turn to fight back. Spurred on by player-manager Terry Newman, England turned up the pressure and were rewarded when a long-range strike from striker Omri Hamama was fumbled into the net to make it 2-2.
Both sets of players began to tire, but one more energetic run from the former West Bromwich Albion man Plotnek ended with a perfect cross that Bihi Zenou expertly nodded in.
To get more from Life, click here to sign up for our free Life newsletter.