MJSL JOAN COLLINS PREMIER DIVISION
REICH 5 MACCABI MANCHESTER BLUE 3
In the top-of-the-table clash, Reich blew the title race open after beating a strong Yellows team convincingly, although after ten minutes, when they conceded two early goals, even the greatest optimist would never have thought a 5-3 win was possible.
In truth, Maccabi started on the front foot with Reich finding it difficult to get any sort of pattern to their play. A corner from Rafi Newman was parried into the net by the Reich stand-in keeper and shortly afterwards a dubious penalty was awarded which was slotted home to make it 2-0 to the league leaders.
A quick reply was needed for Reich and that’s exactly the response that was provided as a throughball saw Zevi Silverstone’s pace and accuracy do the rest.
Reich now began to cause problems at the right end of the pitch and it was no surprise when Rob Cohen’s perfectly hit shot found the corner of the net giving Reece Levy no chance.
There was even time for a goal-mouth scramble with the final touch coming from Solomon Halpern to see that 0-2 score line turn into 3-2 lead at the break.
The next goal was crucial as Maccabi tried to even things up, while Reich tried to put daylight put between the sides. Silverstone’s raw pace caused problems again and his low cross saw Nathan Pitt and a defender bundle the ball home just before the hour to make it 4-2.
For the next half hour, Maccabi moved forward without really creating any worthwhile opportunities but mindful of the very quick Reich counter-attack.
Into added time and Silverstone grabbed his second with a cool taken finish after Yellows defence were left outnumbered. Oli Grant finished clinically at the other end before the final whistle as the game eventually finished 5-3.
Reflecting on the win, Reich boss Ben Burton told JC Sport: "It was a fantastic performance by the players. They didn't let their heads drop and played good football to get back into the game.
"We are a young team and still learning so to reply with five goals against a strong Maccabi team shows our quality and I'm really pleased for the lads."
Reich now are a point clear but having played a game more than Yellows although have a much better goal difference at this point in the season.
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