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London Hibernian
Vs Doncaster Rovers, at Barn Elms 2pm Sunday 12th March 2000
Semi Final of the APFSCIL Cup
Score 2-0
John Leslie
(9.5)
James Allen (9) Jim McPherson (9.9) Andy Hardie (9) Neil Henty (9)
Lee Steer (9) Adam Pomaro (9.25) Jason Steer (9.5) Russell Stinson (9)
Graeme Thompson (9) Gerry Vavasour (9.25)
Substitutes:
Leon Ashford for James Allen (9)
David Lawlor for Graeme Thompson (9)
Fantastic result, not the best performance yet a good solid well earned
victory. The play in the first half demanded a goal. We dominated with Jim
McPherson outstanding at the back and earning Man of the Match taking care
of their unimaginative attack. Their attack was a combination of Dambusters
meets Wimbledon, the long bouncing ball.
With limited imagination in their attack they foundered on the rocks of
solid aerial performances by in particular slim Jim and Jason Steer. As
Doncaster were increasingly frustrated we more and more hit the wings, with
our fit back players giving attacking options with the outside midfield
players overlapping. This pressure eventually brought reward with a
fantastic cross from Lee Steer to be drilled home by Jason in an emphatic
fashion. This brought on howls, literally from the wee lassie supporting
Doncaster, as her daddy's team were not supposed to lose. We were a tad
guilty about it, only a wee bit.
They attacked again and again, but with limited inventiveness our defence
was rock solid, even against the monster that was playing up-front for them.
Half time 1-0 to the HIBEES
The team while not playing to their full silky potential began the second
half peppering the Donny defence and then up steps Mr Showbiz taking an
early pass from the on form Pomaro sprinting past their defence and rifling
home from just inside the box. 2-0 to the Hibees. With the massed ranks of
fans cheering the gallant Hibees and the wee Donny girl howling even more
cos Daddy was getting well and truly whooped.
James Allen took an ankle knock and was substituted for Leon Ashford who
filled the role superbly. Afterward Graeme Thompson was substituted for
power packed Dave Lawlor upfront. The game was won, John Leslie commenting
that he didn't have a save to make. Even John is slowly becoming accustomed
to clean sheets!
Match View:
There was a wonderful Hibs support present, including the Berkshire Hibs
contingent, Mike "star man" McSherry bringing along much
appreciated refreshments. My own wee dance with Luigi at the second goal was
added value. The Donny fans and the weather contributed to making the game a
carnival occasion. The refereeing was generally good except for the Linesman
providing a fairly accurate impression of Mr Magoo.
I am delighted we can now focus on the league for the double and come back
for an even greater carnival on April 2nd when Henri and Mike Mc will be
providing a bar and a barbecue. Thanks also to Martin Longlands and family
and Mr & Mrs Henty. It was a particular delight for Adam and myself to
stick one on the bridge of their manager. Well done to all those involved.
Thanks to Andy Hardie for getting back amongst it.
Man of the MATCH
Jim McPherson for being first every time to the ball, probing forward when
then occasion merited it. He was outstanding breaking the hearts of their
attack and setting up our midfield to attack them relentlessly. Well-done
commando!
Kevin
Manager London Hibs
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