Score 13-2
Goals: 5 for Tao, 3 for Captain, 2 for Cocky, 2 for Jim, 1 for chas
MOM: JH
Team: DC, TH, CB, RH, TW, TK, JH
Opposition: Allens FC
If the Nannas can exhibit the form they showed in the second half of their game against Allens FC last night-even if they played against only 4, most agree they will be serious title contenders come end of season.
The first half however, does pose some serious questions for the coach and upper Nanna management. The most notable problem the Nannas face being their lack of discipline toward each other. One player in the first half was seen constantly shouting at his team-mates only to get the shake of the head from Striker (a serious rebuke) and a smart dressing down from Deep Chasm. Although the CODE of the Nannas was introduced (only last week) to stamp out this unruly on court banter it seems some in the Brown outfit are still yet to learn the benefits of encouragement instead of negativity when playing team sports.
The first half saw a stuttering Nanna outfit coming to grips with hectares of space due to the opposition missing a player. Over the past months the Nannas have been tinkering with a new system, whereby their defence try to dominate possession, passing the ball around and waiting for an opening . At times in the first half this strategy worked but also, due to internal communication that can best be described as hostile, the Nanna shape broke down and the brown outfit became frustrated, mainly with themselves. Half time score 4-1, in favour of the Nannas.
Half time and the Captain said some words, which no one dared repeat later for fear of the his wrath. Whatever was said though worked, as the Nannas held their shape and the ball, pinging in nine goals and conceding only one. Although the opposition was broken within minutes of the returning to court in the second stanza, and most who watched from the sidelines agreed the contest was little more than a training run for the men in brown, the execution and willingness of the Nannas to hold the ball and make the opposition live off scraps was a sight to behold.
Special mention must go to striker for his tireless and unselfish work as a lone hand up front. Having bagged his quota for the night he was willing to station himself as far forward as possible giving time, space and options to those behind him.
Special mention also goes to Chasm for his admirable patience with men who are, prima facie, far beneath him.
Takeshi, the Nanna Japanese import, who has a freakishly low centre of gravity also deserves mention. At the beginning of the match Takeshi’s handling skills seemed a bit below his usual high standards. Realising he was having an off night, he was subsequently seen throwing his body in all manner of directions to compensate. His sliding on his knees to save low shots from the opposition was a particular feature.
Tao and Rhian also had solid games. The former showing his dexterity, put five past the opposing goalie, comfortable with either foot. The latter, well, he continues to go at the opposition and hit them where it really hurts although his trickery did at one point see him almost pulled from court. Late in the second period after a restart the Captain tried something that only he would attempt. The opposition took a speculative shot from halfway and Rhian stuck out a backheal and thought he had it covered. Well, it went through his legs faster than Paul Robinson could say, “oh shit”, and Kondo had no chance. The coach was heard to scream from the side line, “Get that fucking idiot off, get him off now!” but was pulled back by a concerned supporter.
Jim
Great report, truthful, and alarming.
The CODE did indeed take a beating on Thursday and I’m sad to say that the captain must take responsibility for a lack of CODEworthiness (which is a word). Bottling that anger away from the opposition led several internal outbursts at fellow Nannas that are better saved for the bedroom, or locker room or other room suitable for such outbursts. It’s been a week of reflection for this Nanna and a cold hard reflection it has been.
But I’m pulling through, I’ve pulled up my socks and I’ve got back on the horse with no monkey on my chipped shoulder. It’s a leaner, prouder, browner Nanna that sits here, semi clad, typing to talk-back radio in a dimly lit office.
Don’t beat yourself up too much captain, I actually referring to myself as the person doing most of the yelling. And I’ve a long hard look at myself as well.
great report Jim. I’m glad to see you noted the selfless role of the striker acting as both decoy and shield, allowing space for the backs to think “hell, why pass I’ll just take a punt from here”, as well they should, and well the did! I think a special mention should also go to the Chasm for his growling run midway through the first half, and finally a mention of just how f**cking wierd it was playing against 4…
Is it let’s slander the coach month or something? First cocky has about 37 unsubstantiated goes at me about the poker game, then i am accused of saying ‘get that fucking idiot off’. Go easy guys, i am starting to think you don’t like me.