Purple returns to the win column

In a game that was much closer than the final score indicated, Whitby Purple defeated Whitby Neon by a final tally of 4-1. Pat C., playing centre-forward, scored twice (one on a penalty), while Adriano C. and Anthony C. both contributed goals.

The first half started, as always, with Purple defending their 18-yard box for significant periods of time, yeilding several corner kicks and free-throws, but (just barely) keeping Neon off the scoreboard. First half keeper Nick M. was kept very busy, with several dramatic saves to his credit. The first half ended with Purple clinging to a single goal lead, courtesy of Adriano, which was scored very much against the flow of play.

Victor R. replaced Nick in goal for the second half, and benefitted from Purple's traditional second-half rally, only having a few close calls for the first fifteen minutes of the second half. Pat's penalty goal gave Purple a brief breathing space, but Neon replied quickly, sending their forwards up with good support from midfield. Purple didn't break up the attack quickly enough, which gave Neon the scoring opportunity.

Neon's goal steadied Purple, and the possession percentage was strongly in Purple's favour for the rest of the game. The few times that Neon threatened for the rest of the game were quashed fairly easily, with Victor's booming goal kicks quickly moving the action back into Neon territory. Daniel V. and James S. both showed excellent defending skills during the second half, allowing Purple's midfield to play a bit further forward than they normally would.

Next week's game will pit Purple against Whitby Green, who have been playing extremely well recently.