Game 10 Report | By Nick Watts | 8 February 2017

Sitting with equal points on the ladder and only a handful of goals to separate each team it was a crucial fixture for both sides going into the game. The tension was palpable and Yahoo7 were the first to feel the keen sting of that pressure early on in the piece when they were a touch unlucky in putting the ball into their own net off a well-hit cross from John Chaumont.

Rattled from the own goal the opposition defence were again caught off-guard when Jonathan Mousdell charged into the box. Using some clever footwork and a strong boot he found the back of the net to put the Water Wizards two up. It seemed the win was inevitable as the Yahoo7 goal posts were continually rocked and the keeper tested by Laura Shaugnessy who never let them take a breath all game.

Yahoo7 certainly knew it was all or nothing and even brought the keeper out of goals to assist in the field. The tactic paid off. Even with some strong keeping from Michael Cahalane to knock away at least a dozen shots Yahoo7 were able to equalise before the break.

With the second half underway it was clear that if there was going to be a winner to this game something extra would be required. It would be the Water Wizards to produce the special moment when Chris Augostin, although surrounded by opposition players, managed to pull off a brilliant penetrating pass that found Nicole in space and one-on-one with the keeper. With a cool head Nicole slotted the ball past the keeper to once again put the Water Wizards ahead.

The game was not without some controversy. Jonathon decided to employ a few extra limbs and was pulled up for handball. A second handball would earn him a red card and an early trip to the showers. Down a player for the final minutes of the game the Water Wizards kept pushing and were able to hold out for the victory.

This week’s fixture presents the Water Wizards with a chance to close the gap on second placed LEAPsters. After last week’s win the Water Wizards are now only six points away out of first place and with the top spot in their sights will be working even harder to improve their title chances.