A cold and wintry day met VETS1 as they prepared to take on the 12 men of Nivelles.

On our journey down, we passed Waterloo and were reminded that a battle lay ahead and some revenge was needed after our first encounter.

VETS1 got off to the best start possible as a quick early break was duly rewarded with a well worked goal courtesy of goal scoring machine Rice.

In blustery conditions we failed to capitalise on our advantage and Nivelles took hold of the game with good possession and movement. Our defence was resolute and Nivelles found it difficult to deliver a good final ball. However, we were sloppy in possession and all too often found ourselves back in defensive duties. As the first half closed, VETS1 took their only other real chance through another quick break and our talisman front man Ben "Daddy" Griffiths was on hand to improve his season's tally.

A two-nil half time lead would normally be cause for celebration, but we knew we had to up our game and keep hold of the ball better.

With the captain's words still ringing in our ears, we duly set about keeping hold of the ball and working it around the pitch nicely. However, we were still keenly aware that Nivelles 12th man was not going to give us anything easily. Any small contact was given against us which made for a nervous 2nd half.

With 5/10/15 minutes remaining (it was hard to tell) Nivelles got a goal back courtesy of long ball up-field. To make matters worse, Papa Smurf was sent into combat, undoubtedly disappointed that Carl was away. However, Knight was able to intercept a ball from the opponents keeper and place it beautifully into the corner.

As Nivelles seemed to tire we were able to make good in-roads into the opponents half. A noticeable high and low-light was the dizzying run up the length of the pitch (not with the ball mind you) from Fernando. Knight perfectly set the ball up for him to sky it into the atmosphere from 5 yards out. Other chances were also missed but victory seemed in our sights with surely a few minutes left?!?!?!?

This was not the case. A penalty, then a poor clearance in the space of 2 minutes meant that all the hard work had been undone. At 3-3, could there be any more drama?

Yes, of course. Nivelles were awarded a 2nd penalty (where is VAR when you need it) and the chance for a huge comeback.

Fortunately for VETS1, their forward was not able to replicate his first precise penalty kick and skied it over the bar.

The whistle immediately blew. And after a 45 minute 2nd half we came off the pitch frustrated and, in a funny kind of way, fortunate.

Team: Sejersen - Ten Holter (Salvel), Christensen, Waite, Criado - Hoskins, Rice (1-0), Knight (3-1), Sardaro (Levionnais), Cabaret - Griffiths (2-0)

MoM & Reporter: Knight