Match reports for 29/3/08

Falkirk GHG III 1
Rievers 3

The afternoon was always going to be tough for Falkirk 3rd XI, as they played Reivers, with the Galashiels outfit needing to win this match to ensure they would finish as league champions. From the first whistle Falkirk looked second best, as Reivers completely outplayed their hosts in the opening spells and it wasn’t long until the quick one-touch hockey of Reivers saw them take the lead. After conceding, Falkirk had a rare period of possession and Danny Gibney came close when his backstick shot was well saved. However for the rest of the half Falkirk were completely outclassed and outfought and the only Falkirk player who could emerge with any credit was Craig Malcolm in goals, by restricting the score line to only 3-0 at half time. A half-time roasting and a subtle tactical switch seemed to have the desired effect as Falkirk started the second half with much more conviction as they started to pass the ball about. The 3's were presented with a golden opportunity from the penalty spot, however the Falkirk striker pulled his flick wide of the post. By this stage Reivers had dropped out of the game, with the Falkirk midfield winning much more of the possession and Falkirk actually pulled a goal back when Alan McDonald started a move at the edge of his own box, bursting forward. He pushed the ball to Danny Gibney who released a perfectly weighted path onto the stick of onrushing John Russell, who showed great composure to slip the ball under the goalkeeper. This seemed to give Reivers a kick again and both sides created half-chances to score, but neither managed to do so as Reivers held on to win the league. Falkirk were mightily disappointed with their worthless first half performance, but the second half saw a marked improvement with the 3's fighting for every ball and they can take this into their quarter-final plate match next weekend.

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