Corio 1-0 Geelong Rangers We watched the Thais show their flag during the week after hosting them on the hill and went downhill after flying the flag in Lara on the Sunday. We looked good for the draw as they switched the lights on late in the game against Corio and then lost our shape, discipline and the match. Corio had the early chances with former Rangers player Vedran hitting wide when he should have scored. They fired in several crosses and went close a few times but then we gained a foothold and took the game to Corio. Matteo worked his socks off up front but had little support and was always surrounded by a posse of defenders. But we were making inroads and when they did break down the wings Ron Clayson and Danny Innes clattered them with fierce tackles. There were few clear cut chances and one goal was always going to settle the result. Coach Andy Ingham was still experimenting with his side and kept himself on the bench for the first term. By the second half both sides were showing signs of frustration and the referee should have clamped down on some over the top tackles. He did not and it was obvious that something had to give. A late tackle on Clayson resulted in a rush by players from both sides, inspired no doubt by some loud mouths on the sidelines. As a result Dave Valys was sent off as was Mijo. It was more a case of flying the flag than anything else, but in the end we lowered our colours. We took our eye off the ball after that and paid the price with Vedran finding room and banging one in. Cyprus Pete then went close as we hunted for the leveller but he hit directly into the keeper. Ron Clayson did the same and time had run out for us. To say that Corio was pleased with the result was an understatement, they celebrated like they had won the cup, maybe they will, but it was obvious it meant a lot to them.
Posted on: Mon, 17 Feb 2014 05:42:58 +0000