England – Germany
Match 3 Wednesday 13th Oct

Following the relative success of yesterday’s decision to employ a man-to-man system, England started with this system. Danny started in Goal, with Alex leading the outfield team of Ed, Johnny and Steven.
Man to Man looked to be paying off with early pressure from England, early exchanges were favouring the English against a physical German side. Alex was pushed off the ball from a strong German attack and the opening goal.

Danny made some excellent saves; the defence were finally competing with the strength both physically and with skill.

Steven came close to replying with a strong shot that was saved by the German keeper. England were pumped up for this game and competed in all areas, Johnny had what seemed to be a perfectly good goal disallowed for a deflection by an English skate! French Referee, what more can we say.

Time out and Ash changed for Danny. Ash made save but the defence failed to clear and Germany scored from the rebound.
George entered the game and we looked strong again, George and Alex combined to bring a fine save from the German keeper. England continued to press and were rewarded when Steve managed to score following a fine English passing move. The half finished 1-3.

Second half continued in the same style and England again were pressing the German goal, the physical nature of the German game and as England tired spaces opened up and Germany were able to take advantage, time out and England were trailing 1-6.

With 6 minutes left England rotated the keepers, Ash made some strong saves, but this German side were too strong. A smart passing move from Johnny, Josh and Steven almost ended the game with another goal.

Game finished 1-8, disappointing but the team have improved significantly over the past two games, looking forward to Spain tonight.

Nic Pay

Viareggio

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Reporter: Gordon Morrison