Starting Lineup : Mercelis (GK), Amundsen (RWB), Mojena (CB), Bernardo (CB), Lachia (CB), Lebbink (LWB), Ricketts (DMF), McGeehan (DMF), Lamarra S (AMF), Vadora (CF), Kellermam (CF) Subs: Legere, Hodgson, Lambrecht, Lamarra A

As Saturday came upon us once again, another eagerly awaited battle vs the Irish faced the still undefeated Rbbfc first team. Preparations had been slightly hampered in mid-week when our ever present captain Nils McGrath pulled up with a calf injury at training. Fortunately, the strength of this squad meant that we were able to hand a first start to new boy Sylvain, who probably thinks this match report is about him.

It was another cold Saturday out in Nossegem as we rocked up to the Fc Ireland home ground. Despite our current unbeaten run you could feel the pre-match nerves creeping in as we kitted up to face our rivals. This was a good sign. Captain Nils McGrath lead the team talk with a reminder that this would be one hell of a tough game with an opposition who was looking to save their season by not only beating their English speaking counter parts but also putting an end to our unbeaten run. McGrath senior then completed the double act and echoed what McGrath junior said adding some finer points to our tactics.

The match kicked off at a predictably frantic pace but we quickly managed to start imposing our style of play and dominance on the game. Some neat passing at the back by the composed Jonathan Mojena, Decio Bernardo and Sylvain allowed us to bring in Ed and Rich from midfield was paying off as we managed to release Endre and Didi down the flanks. The first 15 mins showed sign of promise but despite having most of the ball possession, we pushed forward without really creating any clear cut chances. The tackles continued to fly in from both sides and the tempo of the game was picking up.

20 mins in, the deadlock was broken by an unlikely source. Our very own Dex de Dança started and finished a move in style. After having won the ball on the half way line, Dex threaded a pass forward to Steve who laid it back to Rich. Dex continued his run throughout the interchange which had not gone un-noticed. Rich clipped a beautifully weighted ball to Dex who had got on the wrong side of the defender. A stunning control on his chest allowed him to bring the ball down, beat the defender and race through on goal. The Ireland keeper had come off his line as was there for the taking. With the composure of a seasoned striker, Dex hit the ball with his right foot with just the right amount of power and sent the ball flying into the top right corner. GOAL! 0-1.

The goal clearly dented the Irish spirit and added composure to our game. Within 10 mins we struck again to make it 0-2. Our ruthless pressure on the opposition when we lost the ball was proving too much for the Irish and with Tommy and Mickey holding the ball up superbly upfront, we were into our stride. For the second goal, Tommy picked up the ball 10 meters outside the Irish penalty area. With a defender in his back, he managed to expertly turn in time to see Steve's run through their midfield. Again another delightful ball over the defenders head put Steve in through on goal. The keeper was quick off his line but Steve managed to poke the ball round him and walk it into the back of the net, 0-2. Half-time.

During the half-time team talk we were remind by McGrath senior that we had won nothing yet and that we needed to keep our focus.

The second half was a tale of one goal and two red cards.

After a rare attack by the Irish and a couple of meaty challenges, it was clear the battle was not over. 10 mins in, a rush of blood to the head of the Irish center half lead him to chop Michele down from behind in mid-air right next to the Ref. In turn the Ref did not hesitate and sent him off. With now reduced to 10 players the pressure started to tell and it was only a matter of time before we got the third goal and finished off the match. The 3rd goal was again courtesy of a great Tommy through ball to Steve down the left hand side. With space opening up at the back, Steve expertly timed his run and collected Tommy's ball just inside penalty area. With the keeper coming out and closing down the options, Steve managed to clip the ball with the inside of his foot and found the bottom right corner of the net. 0-3

With the game dead and buried, the Irish to their credit continued to fight and look for the consolation goal and they almost got it. Their midfielder raced through our normally tight defence and beat the onrushing Kris in goal. Just when we thought he would slot it into the empty net, Dex managed to chase him down but illegally according to the Ref who duly pointed to the penalty spot and gave Dex his marching orders. Bearing in mind that Kris our goalkeeper has not conceded a goal since November 2013, he was not going to give this up lightly. The Irish left footed player stepped and struck the penalty to Kris' right who got down well to save with his legs. As the ball rebounded out, the onrushing Irish player hammered another shot straight at Kris who again expertly managed to parry the ball away. The resulting celebrations on the bench and on the pitch were worthy of any goal. Full time was blown by the ref shortly after as this team once again showed its unity and determination. #stillalongwaytogo

A special mention to all the supporters who came down to watch the game despite the freezing cold. We greatly appreciate your support and the post-match beers and banter!

MOM & Match reporter : Steve Lamarra