MJSL JOAN COLLINS PREMIER DIVISION
FC COSMOS 1 LEEDS MACCABI 2nd 2
Strikes from Johnny Goldstone and Colin Abrahams earned Leeds Maccabi 2nd their first win of the MJSL season following a hard fought victory over FC Cosmos.
Having drawn their first match, Leeds were determined to take maximum points and the game started well with both teams showing improvements since they last met in early 2013. Strong defensive play from Leeds' back four kept advances at bay, while Cosmos’ attackers pressed on.
Cosmos made the breakthrough on 17 minutes following a corner from the right-hand-side. Leeds captain Gidi Amar was put under pressure from ensuing attack, resulting in his header falling into his own net.
Leeds didn’t let the deficit phase them and restarted the game with confidence, playing some lovely driving passes through to the strike force, testing the Cosmos keeper. Ross Jackson showed a lifetime of experience, despite being one of the younger players, darting up and down his wing, using trickery, pace and clever short-passes to evade his counterparts. Leeds were knocking on the Cosmos door but the half-time whistle went, leaving the score at 1-0.
Leeds’ attitude changed at the half, following some wise words from manager Marshall Frieze. The visitors started the second half at a high tempo, testing the fitness of the Cosmos midfield. A great save from the Cosmos keeper kept the score at 1-0, despite penalty claims from Leeds, following a goal-mouth scramble. Referee Alan Jacobs showed great control and settled the play down, restarting the game from a Cosmos goal kick.
Following some great chances at both ends, Leeds’ picked up the ball and fed Max Elgot through to the corner flag on the right wing. A neat ball inside to Goldstone produced a clinical left-footed curling strike from the edge of the area, levelling the score with nine minutes to go.
This seemed to push Leeds on and they continued to drive forwards, showing a greater fitness level later on in the game. And it was fitting that Abrahams nicked the points with virtually the last kick of the game, firing home from 30 yards out, leaving Leeds with an elated drive back on the M62.
Leeds boss Alex Ullmann told JC Sport: "Cosmos were unlucky to lose the way they did, but Leeds dominated possession and the end result was justified.
"We look forward to our next game at home to Manchester Maccabi 2nds, following a defeat on penalties when we met in the Community Shield. Both clubs will be determined to take all three points home, so this may be one to watch."
