Underground FC 4 : West City 2

Underground won their 3rd and 4th playoff match with a hard fought win over West City.

Both sides went into the match with something to prove after last weeks semi final defeats. Underground in particular needed to re assert their authority and finish on a positive note after unexpectedly bowing out in their semi final defeat to Knights FC.

There was a last minute field change in the match as the fields in better condition were prioritised for the final of the cup competition. The muddier ground made play difficult for the more fancied Underground team as West City came out strong.

Throughout the first half West City bombarded the defensive line as they began to pile on the pressure quickly adapting to the difficult conditions. Underground held them out as West City struggled to find that illusive final pass into the box.

As the half progressed Underground started to find their feet, their link up play improved with key passes often finding their target.  Inaccuracy on the final shot spoiled their efforts however as frustration threatened to derail their progress.

Underground got the first goal of the match when strong build up play saw Chris Chu challenge for the ball only to be impeded by the West City goal keeper.  He comfortably put away the resultant penalty to see Underground secure the lead.

With Underground in control heading towards half time an unfortunate mishap bought the scores level. A dangerous cross from West City troubled the Underground defense as a failed clearance saw the ball spoon up for Nathan Dawson to clear away. His attempted volley to clear only saw it spoon off into his own net. An unfortunate way to end the half.

At the beginning of the second half things became worse for Underground as another failed clearance presented West City with a chance to shoot. The strike was inch perfect as West City went ahead 2-1 barely believing their good fortune. 

Things became desperate for Underground as they immediately looked to hit back. A free kick near halfway allowed Tim de Beer to put a ball into the box. The delivery could not have been more perfect as Long Tran found himself in the perfect spot to put away the header bringing the scores level once again.

 Underground started to gain control as the midfield made their dominance count. Liam Badger was the main protagonist as his link up play with Sam Foster saw Underground score two more goals.

Playing as the main striker this time Foster finished the season as he started it.  His usual bustling performance and aggression was particularly useful up front as he made his chances pay with sublime finishing.

A strong final game of the season will no doubt please Underground and their supporters. It has been an incredible season having set themselves a new foundation in the major league. A launchpad with which they can begin to dream of a potential foray into the premier league next season.