Green Gully Under 21’s were looking to assert some dominance over a team that they had beaten successfully during the pre-season. This, however, would be a different proposition with points on offer. Gully were buoyed by the addition of senior player Caio De Godoy, who was returning from illness, but were still somewhat depleted with several Under 18 players in the squad.
The game was wide open with both teams attacking with pace but paying scant attention to the defensive transition. It was apparent to anybody watching that this was unlikely to finish 0-0 at the end of the match. The game had no longer kicked off than the away side had opened the scoring after a slip at the back.
Gully responded by pushing forward and captain Nicholas Giarrizzo led from the front scoring the equaliser. This was followed up by another strike from inform striker Brayden Portelli. The football being played wasn’t of a great standard from either team, but the home side led, nonetheless. Just prior to half time Heidelberg this time responded after a quick through ball was pounced upon.
HALF TIME 2 – 2
After the break, Gully went on the attack immediately and were awarded a penalty after a foul on Thomas Magarelli. Captain Giarizzo again stepped up, after missing the previous week. This time there was to be no repeat and Gully regained the lead.
Heidelberg found an equaliser on the hour mark. Then ten minutes later, Heidelberg took the lead once again with both defences looking shaky. Both De Godoy and Giarizzo were replaced due to illness and injury respectively.
With 10 minutes to go it was Heidelberg’s chance to offer the gifts. This time in the form of an own goal with the full back appearing to be under very little pressure. Shortly after, one of the Heidelberg substitutes then fell foul of the officials and picked up two yellow cards in quick succession, resulting in an early shower.
The game looked like drawing to an even close, until a Heidelberg senior inclusion who had provided issues out wide all day, cut inside and beat the Gully keeper at his far post to seal the win for the away side. Not the result anyone wanted, with massive lessons to be learnt from this defeat.
FINAL SCORE 4 – 5
Report by Asst. Coach Ian Burke
Photo by: Mark Avellino Photography
