Comeback Kid strikes again

PFFC 3 Equifax 3

Geoff, 25 October 2004

 

This was the Gaffer’s first match back after his sabbatical but it was anything but a peaceful return. Twice in front, PFFC eventually escaped with a draw following a last-minute strike from Gibbo.

PFFC’s goalkeeping problems were first evident in this game. With Brian delayed, it was decided after some discussion that Owen would take the gloves and start the game between the sticks. PFFC started brightly and took the lead through Marco; despite conceding a sloppy equaliser, Marco’s second from a speculative shot just before half-time gave PFFC a 2-1 lead.

Brian had now arrived courtesy of a taxi, a tenner from the Gaffer and speedy work by Gibbo on his scooter. With Brian in goal for the second half, Owen reverted to left back and PFFC went in search of a much-needed victory after disappointing recent results.

However two sloppy goals gave Equifax a 3-2 lead, and we looked to be heading for another defeat. Then, when it seemed a lost cause, Gibbo – on as a late substitute and in one of those bursts of energy and desire that characterises his appearances from the bench – scored a dramatic last-minute equaliser with a great strike from the edge of the box. Filippo led the pitch invasion.

The result had a bitter-sweet feeling; a game we probably should have won, but from which we were relieved to have got something at the end. We had stopped a dodgy run, scored some goals at last and showed we could compete in this league. The Gaffer, however, was worried about the goalkeeping position. Owen had given glimpses of his ability, but he was really a left back and couldn’t be expected to fill in on a more permanent basis. Or could he?