The OFFC took on newly formed Total Football FC (TFFC) at Flitch United’s pitch in Stebbing. Baking hot sun made it difficult for the OFFC part-timers who were up against a well drilled and trained TFFC in preparation for their first season in the Essex Sunday Corinthian League.
Six new OFs joined OFFC and made their debuts, bringing the average age of the team down significantly. Whilst TFFC pressed on with their cone drills, the OFs perfected their one touch in the centre circle and posed under instruction from Derek, who kindly took photos for the game.
The first half saw things play out very evenly, with some slack marking allowing Joe Head to ghost to the back post and slot home a cross from the left. TFFC rued their missed chances, although the Felsted system and lockdown from defenders Lewis, Mann, Burslem, and Jones proved the OFs could remain resolute without having played together before.
Despite TFFC using more switches than a cowboy electrician, wide-men Hadley, Latham and Kingham had the energy to press when required. James Smithiesta (MOTM) was the pick of the midfield – sticking to the manager’s tactical masterplan in addition to sliding through Hadley for the (VAR checked) Kingham winner in the second half.
Injuries took hold of the OFs in the second half, but Burns being quick off his line and slow to collect the ball for goal kicks upsetting the rhythm of TFFC. Another lapse of concentration from TFFC saw Kingham score in his 11-a-side debut to round off a 2-1 win for the OFs.
TFFC had the majority of the possession, but the shape, effort and desire of the OFs was enough to see them through to victory.
We would like to thank the OFs who played on short notice, Flitch United for use of the their top-class facilities and Derek Charman for taking the photos. We wish TFFC well in their coming season.
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