Birkbeck 1 - 1 Limeys

Match Report
Birkbeck 1 - 1 Limeys
Wednesday 10 November 2010, 1-2pm

This was a strange match, against strangely-named (but perfectly well-mannered and sportsmanlike) opposition. Birkbeck were outplayed for much of the game, yet it was their opponents who were chasing an equaliser during the late stages. Once it came, the momentum seemed to be with the Limeys, but then Birkbeck still had clear-cut chances to steal the game in the dying seconds.

(Actually, that pretty much summarises the match, and if I didn't have a reputation for producing wordy and bloated blog posts to uphold, then I'd probably leave it there.)

Anyway, Birkbeck named a strong squad, featuring for the first time in recent memory not one but two fit and available substitutes. After manager Parrott delivered his usual analysis of the opposition ("We don't know much about them" - well, we never do, because our efforts to evaluate the team we're playing never stretches beyond a cursory glance at the table and the briefest of attempts to recollect what happened last time) the team lined up, as ever, not knowing what kind of match lay in store.

Though Birkbeck were in theory better equipped to deal with a strong opponent, they started slowly against an impressive Limeys side full of quality and endeavour. Fortunately they weren't able to press home their advantage, although there were certainly one or two hairy moments, and before the first half was over it was Birkbeck who took the lead, with Nduka demonstrating a sharp turn of pace, racing clear of the defence and slamming home an emphatic left-foot finish.

The second half largely mirrored the first, although as the game became more open Birkbeck certainly had more space to counter-attack. Limeys created plenty of opportunities to equalise, but each time they were foiled by defending of the last-ditch variety, with shots either ricocheting off a sprawling 'keeper or being hacked off the goal-line by a defender.

Just as it seemed victory was a possibility, the Limeys grabbed an equaliser. Birkbeck were slow to close down a short corner, and the resulting shot found its way through a crowd and into the back of the net. With minutes remaining on the clock, the Limeys could smell victory, but as they pressed for a winner, Birkbeck, led by Champion and Nduka, became more dangerous on the break. The latter had the chance to seize the beckoning glory of victory, but sadly, it was not to be.

Still, a late goal would have been harsh on the Limeys, who retreated following their let-off, seemingly happy with a point. The same could be said for Birkbeck, who as usual greeted the final whistle with a sigh of relief. It was a tough match, to be sure, but Birkbeck will have to see off opponents at least as good as this if they want to stay in this division. (Do we want to stay in this division? [Yes - the management and sponsors])