NPLM Round #14: Paradise in Stoppage Time

A BRILLIANT JOSHUA BRINDELL-SOUTH HEADER EARNS US THREE VITAL POINTS IN STOPPAGE TIME

Our Lions Men rallied late to earn a stunning 3-2 victory in the 93rd minute after Olympic had shown character to fight from 2-0 down in the second half.

In a typically tense clash, our Lions Men started strongly, taking the game to the visitors in an end-to-end clash at Luxury Paints Stadium.

Alex Fiechtner and Shaun Carlos created promising chances before Finn Beakhurst broke the deadlock with a beautifully driven freekick into the bottom right corner. Ten minutes later, an identical freekick was spilled into the path of Andy Pengelly, who made no mistake with a powerful short-range finish.

We created several swift moves in possession, advancing forward with courage and intent but ultimately failing to extend our lead. On the brink of half-time, a brilliant first-time speared shot was buried in the bottom left corner, and the hosts had a goal back.

The second half began with more balance. Andy Pengelly steered a header wide before Cardiff Pond was called on to make a series of authoritative saves. A sweeping move saw Andy Pengelly nod the ball into the path of Jack Skinner, but his effort was saved firmly.

Olympic were awarded a penalty after the hour, but Cyrus Dehmie skewed his shot wide. Minutes later, they drew level.

The final twenty minutes erupted into end-to-end chaos-football, with both sides creating dozens of chances, firing shots at every occasion. Joe Duckworth looked certain to score, but a vital intervention sent his effort inches shy of the top left corner.

Up stepped Joshua Brindell-South.

In a game that looked certain for a stalemate, Joshua Brindell-South rose brilliantly at the near post, guiding a definitive header into the bottom right corner to seize all three points.

A monumental victory that keeps our title charge alive, while showcasing the fighting spirit and belief of this team.