Británicos (0) 1
Lasierra
Black Falcons (4) 7
@CMF Azucarera 12/12/21 17:00
"If you learn from defeat you haven't really lost" - Zig Ziglar
The omens had not been good as the Exiles were preparing themselves for the most important match in their season to date. After establishing a good run of form they were up against third place Black Falcons one place above them. A win would put the Brits into the top pack contenders for glory. As matchday approached a series of devastating announcements rocked the squad. The promising youngster Cordoba confirmed he would have to withdraw his name from selection due to a change in his circumstances, it seems unlikely he will return to the squad this season. Lepore, Martin and Bates both withdrew their name from the squad for the match due to travel commitments. These blows were countered with the exciting news that Pernas was returning to take his number 7 shirt once more but on the afternoon of the match Rooney withdrew and Ferns declared himself well below match fitness and then Munro and Atkinson withdrew with injury. The Brits were left with a makeshift line up, stripped of the quality spine and any depth. All knew it would be a challenge to take a result from the match.
It was a sobering experience as the Falcons took a three goal lead within ten minutes. The first was an outstanding powerful volley at the back post two minutes after kick off. With the Brits still reeling the second was an extraordinary flick of the ball over the head of the defender and then nonchalantly hooked past the keeper. The third saw the Falcons pounce on a Brits clearance and before the game had really got underway, it was over as a competitive contest.
The Brits showed great character to continue to apply themselves with diligence as the opponents enjoyed their superiority. Gilman received a booking midway through the first half for a clumsy challenge that arose more out of frustration than anything else. His frustration was to be compounded by a ligament injury to his ankle in the second half which would almost certainly see him out of action for the final game of the year.
Wolfenden showed tireless running and was unlucky not to have converted with his head in the first half and Pernas looked menacing and impressive upon his return. Lasierra took the consolation goal for the Brits in the second half, and was unlucky to have a second chalked off.
The Falcons looked impressive and organised as well as efficient in front of goal but the Exiles felt their defence was not as solid. There is a degree of confidence that if there is a full strength team to face them in the return fixture the outcome will be very different indeed. This had been a humiliating but illuminating experience. The team know that they are better than this result and are keen to bounce back immediately against table footers Hunters F7 to close out the year.
Meanwhile, elsewhere in the league The team Proyecto Hombre has been replaced with Allianza Latina
Thanks to our sponsor Gallagher Irish Tavern for your continuing support.
