Premier League Review: Round 2

Gibraltar United and St Joseph’s served up a football treat on Friday evening. A 2-2 draw that had two men sent off, both teams hitting the woodwork and end to end entertainment. Lincoln capitalised on the dropped points by going 2 points clear after defeating Phoenix 2-0 though they had to sweat for their result. Boca were unlucky to lose 3-0 to Mons Calpe, the last two Calpean goals came late on as Boca energy levels dropped. Lynx put three past Lions while Europa and Glacis closed round 2 with a 0-0 draw that saw Glacis hit the crossbar very late on.

Round 3 kicks off on Wednesday evening with Gibraltar United seeking to go back to winning ways against a dogged Boca Juniors. Lions have a third stern test in the guise of Lincoln while Lynx will test their new side against St Joseph’s. Mons meet Glacis while Europa versus Phoenix will see the last Premier Division action for a while as they will now come an International break followed by an enforced hiatus due to the music concert.

 

Round Two Results

St Joseph’s F.C. (Delgado, Peña)	2   2	Gibraltar United (Ponce de Leon, Cortes Narvaez)
Lions Gibraltar F.C.	0   3	Lynx F.C. (Seatory, OG, Januszkiewicz)
F.C. Boca Juniors	0   3	Mons Calpe S.C. (OG, Pibe, Kesinovic)
Gibraltar Phoenix F.C.	0   2	Lincoln Red Imps F.C. (J.Chipolina, Cabrera)
Europa F.C.	0   0	Glacis United F.C

Round Three Fixtures

Gibraltar United	Vs	F.C. Boca Juniors
Lynx F.C.	Vs	St Joseph’s F.C.
Lincoln Red Imps F.C.	Vs	Lions F.C.
Europa F.C.	Vs	Gibraltar Phoenix F.C.
Mons Calpe S.C.	Vs	Glacis United F.C.

League table as of 21-8-1017

Premier Division Review: Round 8

 

An interesting round of matches that has made the league tighter than it was last week. St Jospeh’s leapfrogged United into 2nd courtesy of their 2-1 win over Lynx. It turned out to be an entertaining match and testament to the improvement the Yellow and Blacks have made off late. Lincoln saw off Mons Calpe via a solitary goal to sail away over the horizon while Europa FC confirmed their recovery by climbing into 4th place by beating Man 62 2-0. Gibraltar United dropped two points against Gibraltar Phoenix and Glacis United chalked a third successive win at the expense of Lions FC.

Due to the forthcoming works at the Victoria Stadium Round 9 has been spread over a few weeks and this weekend sees the playing of the remaining fixtures. The outstanding fixture sees 3rd vs 4th place when Gibraltar United square off against Europa FC on Sunday evening. Lynx and Man 62 play a basement battle of a fixture with the winner guaranteed a 3 point gap from the foot of the table. The last game pits 1st versus 2nd as rampant Lincoln take on St Jospeh’s in what is an early Christmas cracker of a weekend of football.

Round Eight Results

Manchester 62 FC	0   2	Europa FC (Garcia Montero, Carreno)
St Jospeh’s FC (Lopez, Delgado)	2   1	Lynx FC (Gargiulo)
Mons Calpe SC	0   1	Lincoln Red Imps FC (R.Chipolina)
Lions FC	0   1	Glacis United FC (Thomas)
Gibraltar United (Ramalho 2)	2   2	Gibraltar Phoenix FC (Narvaez, Lopez)

Round Nine Fixtures

Glacis United FC (Mena)	1   0	Mons Calpe SC
Gibraltar Phoenix FC (Carrasco)	1   0	Lions FC
Lynx FC	Vs	Manchester 62 FC
Lincoln Red Imps FC	Vs	St Jospeh’s FC
Europa FC	Vs	Gibraltar United

League Table as of 27-11-17

Gibraltar United vs Lincoln Red Imps FC

Match corresponding to the 6^th Round of the Gibraltarian Premier Division and played on Friday 10^th November 2017 at 20:30. Match report brought to you courtesy of Turicum Private Bank and Quantocoin.

Gibraltar United 0 – 1 Lincoln Red Imps FC

Gibraltar United

1   Kyle ‘Chino’ Goldwin (C)
23 Andre De Oliveira Farinha
5   Erin Barnett
15 Aymen Mouelhi
3   Mattia Rosato
24 Jamie Bosio
4   Yalany Baio
8   Filipe Aguiar
17 Marco Meireles
20 Michael Negrette
19 Manuel Roman Salado

SUBSTITUTES

Ayman Elghobashy on for Michael Negrette
Filipe Da Cruz Ramalho on for Jamie Bosio
Tito De Torres on for Andre De Oliviera Farinha

Manolo gives recent signing from AS Roma, Mattia Rosato his debut in detriment to Alberto who drops to the bench. Otherwise it’s as we were with the manager retaining faith in the unit that has won three games on the bounce. Roman, full of confidence after his brace last week, leads the line with a compact and solid unit behind him.

Back Row (l to r): Aguiar, Meireles, Chino (C), Barnett, Roman, Mouelhi. Front Row (l to r): Farinha, Baio, Bosio, Negrette, Rosato

United supporters debut their flag

A very peculiar sight greeted the gathered supporters at the Victoria Stadium this evening as the teams walked out. United as the Home team were resplendant in their Red and White striped kits, Lincoln as the Away team sported their Home colours of Red and Black stripes. The question being asked around the stands was if the referee had actually seen the kits before kick off as the potential for a kit clash and the confusion arising out of it was immense. This shot taken in the second half highlights the issue.

Lincoln kicked off the highly anticipated match and for the first 30 minutes United looked the more threatening of the two teams. Roman had Soler in action early on and Negrette blazed a long range shot wide after some fancy footwork afforded him space to shoot. Rosato, making his debut, was impressing with his pace and power but was soon in the book after a clash with Jean Carlos Garcia that left the latter with a bloodied nose. The game was close and intense with Lincoln enjoying spells of possession but creating little.

Their first chance fell to Bardon who fired from close in but could not beat Chino who pounced on the shot and kept the score at 0-0. Their second attempt came from a Calderon free kick that was once again saved by Chino. As the half crept to a close however, United rode their luck. A Falu header was brilliantly saved onto the crossbar by the United Captain, hit the line and was met by the cat like Chino that reacted faster than anyone to the action to safely gather the ball up. Mr Canepa shortly blew for half time and brought an exciting 45 minutes to a close. Both teams were evenly matched up with perhaps Lincoln being the most clinical but coming up against an inform Chino in goal.

United kicked the second half off and the match continued to stay at even pegging with both teams enjoying spells with the ball but not finding a way through. United’s attacking players were lacking the penetration to feed Roman while Lincoln’s forays were largely long balls looking for Falu. It was clear that this was a game of fine margins and the tension was palpable. Tension that was fed by a refereeing performance that agitated a lot of the match going public.

Chino was finally beaten by a Falu Aranda shot in the 65th minute. The keeper was able to parry a powerful Cabrera shot from distance but the force behind it made it ricochet off Chino’s gloves. Falu was quickest to react and struck the ball past the keeper and into United’s net. Manolo reacted instantly and threw on Elghobashy and Ramalho, both scorers in the week with the Reserves. The former’s strength and power was an instant handful for the Lincoln defence that soon had 3 men in and around Ayman. Pipo’s close ball control and class are a wonder to behold but the Red Imp’s line held firm. As time ebbed away De Torres was given his debut replacing an exhausted Farinha to add further attacking impetus as United sought an equaliser.

Mr Canepa started to brandish yellow cards as is if they were sweets on Halloween as 5 players went into the book in the last 10 minutes of the game as tensions rose and the clock wound down to full time. Aguiar blasted United’s final clear chance over the bar as the referee brought the match to an end after 5 minutes of added time at the end.

This team’s spirit is strong and determined!

Though the match and the points had been lost United players and staff can be proud that they went toe to toe against Lincoln for most of the match. This was evident in the tightness of the scoreline and the tension evident on the pitch. A first defeat of the season in any competition and a very honourable loss too. It leaves United still in second place awaiting the outcome of the St Joseph’s vs Europa match being played on Saturday. Our next game is on Saturday 18th November when we square off against Glacis United.

Farewell Robert! The Gunslinger makes his Exit!

All great stories come to an end sometime and for the the sharpest gun in the West the sun has set over his Gibraltar United Career on the pitch.

Robert joined us for the start of the 2015/16 season as our marquee signing in the attacking area of the pitch, leaving Second Division side Europa Point as the lure of working with former Boss Manolo was too strong for Robert to resist. He set the tone for his Red and White career by scoring his first goal in his first match against a feisty Britannia.

That set him off on a remarkable scoring streak that saw him net 15 times for the first team and a further 8 times for the Reserves. His goals against Man 62, Lynx FC and most notably Glacis and Angels FC saw the club safe in a difficult first season in the top flight. The moniker John Wayne was to serve Robert well in his first season as almost every ball he touched in the area was converted into a goal. His connection with Pitu was deadly as one can appreciate below.

Scoring 15 league goals in a struggling side, add to that 9 for the Reserves, brought Robert to the attention of Jeff Wood and the clamour for him to get capped was immense. Roberts prowess on the pitch made Mr Wood’s selection easy. A local forward getting regular game time and scoring regularly could not be left out despite the club’s standing in the league. As it was Robert earned his two UEFA caps in the home friendlies against Latvia and Leichtenstein in March 2016. He was to carry on being a regular call up for the following year as Gibraltar begun its FIFA journey as well; just rewards for his efforts.

The following season was much like the last as we fought at the wrong half of the table but yet again Robert ended the season as our top goalscorer, netting six times. It was with a heavy heart that he approached the club informing us of his decision to step down as age has finally caught up with him. His sharpness in front of the goal has not blunted and it will be Olympique 13 that will benefit from this poacher extraordinaire as he is sure to set the 2nd Division alight!

His eagerness to help with our youth has seen him become a coach and will continue that role. Though he leaves the club as a player he still works tirelessly passing on his experience and wisdom to the young strikers in our youth ranks. Indeed Robert has certainly become a Gibraltar United man through and through!

Farewell Capitan!

Credit to Christopher Milan, Christian Correa, Core Photography and Snaprimages for the photos.

Season in Review

30th June is a marked day in many football calendars around the world as it sees the end of one season and the start of another with many contracts traditionally finishing on this date. As such it is fitting that we post our 2016/17 season review today as the football world begins to turn its attention to the 2017/18 season.

United moved fast and quick in the heady days of the summer of 2016 to secure several marquee signings. GFA regular Jamie Bosio joined from Lincoln FC after completing his studies and he was joined by the Hernandez brothers from Man 62. Jason Pusey, Paul Podesta, Ashley Rodriguez, Aymen Mouehli, Erin Barnett Dani Wink and Jesse Victory all signed for the club in a bid to challenge for a place higher up in the league.

A mixed preseason saw an inconsistent run of results as Manolo gelled in so many new faces into the squad. So many new players in key positions meant that there was an unfamiliarity and lack of chemistry that takes time to foster. Yet as is his want, the manager drilled the squad hard in preseason to have them ready for a late September kick off against Manchester 62.

United’s first game of the 16/17 Season

Robert Montvio promised to carry on where he had left off the previous year by netting a brace that earned United a point when perhaps they should have got three. After one game the league took its first hiatus for International Football and Jeff Wood called up a number of United players and its also provided an opportunity for new players to gel with their new team mates. Games against recently crowned European Champions Portugal and the first FIFA World Cup Qualifiers for Gibraltar followed.

The league continued mid October with United facing tough opposition in champions Lincoln, 3rd placed St Joseph’s and in Mons Calpe the surprise package of the season. 3 defeats left us 7th hovering above Europa Point, Lions and Lynx FC. Our first win of the season came against the latter with yet another Montovio goal. United had showed great maturity in their play and the results against Lincoln in particular showed the progress made.

United were dealt a major injury blow early in the season when defensive stalwart, Brad Power, succumbed to a major injury that was to leave him out of the game for a long time. Jason Pusey stepped into the breach and became the defensive rock Manolo built his defence. Erin Barnett was his constant companion flanked by Pishu and Perez. A dour 0-0 draw against Lions FC augured what was to come however.

Robert in action vs Lincoln Red Imps

The Red and Whites next tasted ‘victory’ in a forfeited match in early December but broke off for the Christmas with a tremendous morale booster of a 3-1 win over Man 62 in which Paul Podesta scored a spectacular long range effort to seal the win. The Red and Whites however entered a very negative spiral of results that threatened to unhinge the whole season.

In a run of 12 matches from January to April, United garnered two points and went 6 games without scoring as the dependable John Wayne (aka Robert Montovio) found that his powder had gone somewhat dry. A 93rd minute loss to basement club Europa Point saw United at their lowest ebb as the spectre of relegation loomed large. January had also seen club stalwarts Jared Buhagiar and Carl Thomas leave the club, they had a combined appearance total of 125 and would now don the claret and blue of Glacis United. EL Andalussi and Marquez were transferred to Mons Calpe while evergreen Robba resigned for the club alongside Paul Grech.

Gibraltar United also showed that it was committed to its civic duties when it supported a charity initiative by Stuart Felice and joined him for his Dip a Day on a cold, wet but fun March afternoon at Camp Bay.

April 2017 however brought the most momentous news in the Club’s recent history. News broke that former Real Madrid and Spain international Michel Salgado, alongside Dubai based banker Pablo Dana, had bought the club. There was an immediate stir of excitement, not only among United supporters, as Michel Salgado landed on the Rock on the 4th April 2017 to announce not only his purchase of the club but also a partnership with Turicum Private Bank as the club’s main sponsor. Michel met all the teams in the Youth Division as well as the Senior squad. Morale was on the up and the effect was immediately felt on the field.

United had rediscovered their form. A battling point against St Joseph’s was followed by two more draws and a much needed victory against Glacis United that pulled United away from the relegation places and into safety. Both Hernandez brothers scored against Glacis United with Pishu showing a composure beyond his years to seal the win very late on. Despite a catastrophic result against Europa FC, United saw the season out in 7th place, an improvement on last season and with solid foundations being laid for a more promising 2017/18 season as the Salgado era began.

The club finished the season with a massive recruitment drive and held youth trials at the stadium for over 130 young  players and held a charity Gala night in which £5,000 was raised for the Calpe House trust. Club legend Adolfo Ramriez was named the Club’s Life Honorary President. Oh yes and just the small matter of a World Cup and Champions League Winner, Brazil legend called Roberto Carlos being the club’s guest of honour!

 

Vi et Animo, Ad Victoriam!

Gibraltar United FC vs Europa Point Football Club

Match corresponding to the 27th round of the Gibraltarian Premier Division and played on Monday 22nd May at 20:30. Match report is brought to you courtesy of Turicum Private Bank, thanks for your support!

Gibraltar United Football Club 2 – 2 Europa Point Football Club

Montovio
Hernandez

Gibraltar United Football Club

1   Ashley Perez
17 Kaylan Rumbo
5   Jason Pusey
19 Brad Power
8   Andrew ‘Pishu’ Hernandez
15 Aymen Mouelhi
26 Ashley Rodriguez
23 Jesse Victory
9   Evan Green
4   Anthony Hernandez
7   Robert Montovio (C)

SUBSTITUTES

Erin Barnett on for Brad Power
Paul Grech on for Ashley Rodriguez
Jamie Currer on for Evan Green

The last game of the season sees us already safe as Man 62’s last results have meant that United are safe and the former are resigned to have to play the playoff. An unusual line in up in the usual left back was in goal covering for the injured Chino. Jesse Victory comes into the line up in place of Paul Podesta while Kaylan Rumbo covers at left back.

There was definitely an end of season feel to the game during its early stages. United safe in the league and Europa Point already relegated. The early exchanges saw United keeping possession as Europa Point’s youngsters tried to engage in a pressing game that would force United into a mistake. In a snapshot of what our season has been like United were very solid at the back but lacking the creative spark to make a chance that would break the deadlock.

As it was Perez was the first ‘keeper’ that was called into action as he easily gathered up a shot from Dannoun. United’s only real chance of the game came from header from Pusey that flew harmlessly wide. Nothing much more to report and supporters were hoping for a more entertaining match in the second half.

It was a MUCH more entertaining match no doubt in the second half. Three Red and White chances came in quick succession. A Jesse Victory through ball found Robert only to find an excellent Hankins in goal be the equal of the effort. A few minutes later an excellent cross into the box by Rodriguez was an inch away from Montovio’s extended toe. Thirdly Anthony was put clear by a defensive mistake only to once again be thwarted by an excellent hand from Hankins. The teenage keeper has been Europa Point’s highlight of the season since his loan move from Lincoln and his future certainly looks bright.

Europa Point took the lead amidst all this United dominance. Golpe was given the freedom of the Victoria Stadium by the United team to travel deep into the United half and unleash a powerful shot from distance that Perez could not stop from trickling into the net. The passivity of United’s tackling in the middle of the park had meant that the opposing player was allowed to the edge of the box unhindered.

As is customary United fought back ferociously and Europa Point’s lead was short lived with Robert finally finding the net after an assist from substitute Paul Grech, playing against his former team. The solid Hankins was finally beaten and United were now looking to put the game to bed. Anthony was once again foiled by Hankins and as the game petered to a close it entered its most frantic stage.

First it was Europa Point that took a surprise lead for a second time in a very similar fashion to the first goal. The lack of tackling anywhere near Ethan Britto allowed the youngster to approach the area unopposed and once again beat Perez from distance. United players looked shocked, but not as shocked as supporters in the stands who could not believe what they were seeing. 3 minutes later United scored after Anthony was finally able to out fox both defenders and his nemesis Hankins to nestle the ball into the corner of the net to bring the score to 2-2.

Europa Point had the last say of the game as they had the ball in the net again at the death only for the ref, Mr Gilbert, to initially give the ball and then after some consultation with his assistants flag it off for offside. The controversy was followed by a number of bookings and a final whistle that brought an end to this most arduous of seasons.

Though a full season review will follow shortly it has been a long 27 game season that sees United improve one position on last year finishing on 7th.

The Premier League final standings.

The players and staff enjoyed a well earned pizza and beer break in the changing rooms as attention now turns to Under 21 and Full Internationals as well as what promises to be an exciting pre-season as the transfer window opens in matter of weeks.

A massive thank you goes to our sponsors, supporters, technical staff and of course the players that have given their all for 27 games and over 11 months of a long, hard season. Enjoy the Summer and we will be back soon!

Vi et Animo, Ad Victoriam

Europa Football Club vs Gibraltar United Football Club

Match corresponding to the 26th Round of the Gibrltarian Premier Division and played on Friday 12th May at 20:30. Match report comes to you courtesy of Turicum Private Bank

Gibraltar United Football Club 0 – 7 Europa Football Club

Gibraltar United Football Club

1   Kyle ‘Chino’ Goldwin (C)
3   Ashley Perez
5   Jason Pusey
19 Brad Power
21 Erin Barnett
8   Andrew ‘Pishu’ Hernandez
26 Ashley Rodriguez
15 Aymen Mouelhi
9   Evan Green
14 Paul Podesta
4   Anthony Hernandez

SUBSTITUTIONS

Jamie Currer on for Kyle ‘Chino’ Goldwin
Robert Montovio on for Anthony Hernandez

Following last weeks morale booster of a win against Glacis United, the Red and Whites faced title challengers Europa FC. With Jamie Boiso out for the season Ashley Rodriguez joined Aymen in midfield in what proved to be the only change in the line up vis a vis last week. Now doubt a very tough 90 minutes ahead, that were soon going to be made even tougher.

Credit goes to Chris Correa and Correa Photography for all the photos used in toady’s write up.

Line up

United were well aware of the task ahead of them in this penultimate game of the season. Our earlier games against Europa FC has seen tenacious rearguard performances that resulted in respectable score lines and decent team performances and for about 10 minutes United were able to be in a game that also had supreme importance for Europa and their title aspirations.

Pishu in amongst it in the opening exchanges.

Double disaster struck on the tenth minute. Europa FC opened the scoring via a Toscano goal that Chino tried desperately to keep out. As Mr Warwick indicated for play to resume the keeper stayed on the ground wincing in pain and motioning for help; he was clearly in pain and some distress. Medical staff from both teams, including the GFA doctor, rushed onto the pitch amid calls for an ambulance. It took a while to stabilise Chino’s shoulder but the prognosis was not a good one, a suspected dislocated shoulder. An injury to Dani Wink meant that Ashley Perez had to go into goal, something he already did early in the season against the same opposition.

Our thoughts are with Chino.

Europa, as expected, dominated the game from this point on and a deluge of goals followed. Credit however needs to go to the team and the stand in keeper that did pitch in with several good saves of note. At no time did Red and White heads drop or at no time did the fight leave the team as they worked doubly hard to ensure Ashley had the necessary protection.

Perez in goal!

United were to also have several chances, two in particular with the score at 2-0. First Anthony had a goal disallowed for offside, a close call if ever there was one. Currer drifted in a ball from the left that Anthony buried with certain aplomb only for the officials to have it chalked off. Aymen followed up soon after with a miss from close range. A goal was the least this team deserved as they faced adversity against perhaps the best drilled and organised team in Gibraltar.

Anthony had a goal disallowed for offside.

Attention now turns to the season defining game against Europa Point on the 22nd May. United know a win means we are safe, though events may conspire between now and kick off that might ensure our safety without having to kick a ball in anger as Man 62 play both their remaining games before we do. Ultimately our fate rests in our hands and the players are well up for the fight. The final say in this report is a tale of two keepers. Firstly thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery go to Chino, and total respect goes to Ashley Perez who stepped into the breach in the most Shakespearean of ways!

Gibraltar United Football Club vs Glacis United Football Club

Match corresponding to the 25th Round of the Gibraltarian Premier League and played on Saturday 6th May 2017 at 18:15. Match report brought to you courtesy of Turicum Private Bank.

Gibraltar United Football Club 2 – 1 Glacis United Football Club

Hernandez, Anthony
Hernandez, Andrew ‘Pishu’

Gibraltar United Football Club

1   Kyle ‘Chino’ Goldwin (C)
6   Dexter Panzavechia
19 Brad Power
5   Jason Pusey
21 Erin Barnett
8   Andrew ‘Pishu’ Hernandez
24 Jamie Bosio
15 Aymen Mouelhi
9   Evan Green
14 Paul Podesta
4   Anthony Hernandez

SUBSTITUTES

Ashley Rodriguez on for Evan Green
Kaylan Rumbo on for Paul Podesta
Robert Montovio on for Anthony Hernandez

United come into the match with the sour taste of a 0-0 draw vs Lions last time out that should have been three points. Our opponents today, Glacis United, have transformed themselves from relegation candidates last year to sitting snugly in 4th this time around. Former United player Jared Buhagiar lined up against us while Manolo made several changes too. Robert dropped to the bench with both Podesta and Green flanking Anthony on point. An injury to Ashley Perez meant that Dexter had to cover at left back. Chino took the armband for this transcendental game.

The three points at stake today are vital for the basement battle currently going on. United were conscious that a win would take us above Lions on goal difference and 4 points clear of Man 62 in 9th. Glacis would be no pushovers though and have proven to be a resilient and tough team to beat this season, a recent 3-3 draw against Lincoln testament to this.

1…2…3 GIBRALTAR!

United kicked off in the May sunshine and immediately sought quick balls out to the flanks to Podesta and Green who tried to make spaces for Anthony to attack. Though there was little early action United looked calm and composed, though at times holding a high line at the back. Bosio and Aymen were relishing the midfield battle with the latter in particular once again having a great match and demonstrating the rich vein of form he is currently in. Glacis were resorting to balls over the top looking to exploit the pace of their pacy wingers Ferrer and Llaves; their frustrations at constantly being caught offside earned them bookings for dissent.

The opening goal came after a period of Red and White dominance of the ball. We had been knocking at the door once or twice in the minutes previous to the goal. Pishu found himself with the ball after a cleared ball with only rushing keeper to beat. Setting himself he lobbed the ball over the keeper only for it to be cleared for corner on the goal line. Jamie Bosio struck the ball goalwards, with the keeper beaten it required another goal line clearance to keep Glacis in the game. 5 minutes later however United got the lead they so deserved.

Aymen, majestic and imperious in the middle of the park, stole possession from a plodding Glacis player and played a delightful ball over the Glacis defence. Anthony, ever the predator, was hovering in the space between the centre halves, deftly controlled the ball with his chest and calmly slotted the ball past the keeper. United 1-0 up and deservedly so. Thanks to Vanessa Correa for the video.

Goal Anthony Hernandez 4 for @GibraltarUnited ⚽ @GibraltarUnited 1-0 @GlacisUtdFC pic.twitter.com/n4KMSfeKcq

— Vanessa Correa (@vanessa190783) May 6, 2017

As Glacis sought to equalise United began to catch them on the counter. In one such move the right back, Pineda, had to resort to a pulling Anthony back as he ghosted past him. Referee, Mr Murphy, had no choice but to show him a second yellow card (the first he got for kicking the ball away) and send him off despite the vocal protestations of the Glacis bench. In a following counter attack some excellent pressure from Podesta forced the keeper into an error, Anthony proved rather wasteful as he blasted the ball wide. In the last action before the ref called time, Anthony once again with the chance but this time the keeper kept him out with an excellent save. United ascendant in this first half and deservedly so.

The teams walk off at half time.

The game resumed for the second 45 with United safe in the knowledge that a similar performance would mean 3 points. However this second half was to be rather controversial with three red cards being dished out by the ref. The first one was a double red for the Glacis keeper and Dexter who came head to head over a challenge. Mr Murphy sent Dexter off and the Glacis keeper also got his marching orders following some afters with United players. Glacis now with 9 players, United with 10. The football prevalent in the first half seemed to have lost its role to play acting and cynical fouls across the pitch

As a result Ashley Rodriguez came on for Green as the game had taken on a more physical slant. United however could not capitalise on their numerical advantage. Anthony again proved profligate missing a golden chance to bring the game to bed missing a one on one with the keeper. It was not long after that Glacis were down to 8 men as skipper Leo Pereyra saw a second yellow to also end up early in the showers. Surely now United had the three points. Double disaster however soon struck.

Jamie Bosio collapsed in a heap after a challenge and from the off it did not look good. He was on the floor for a while and was eventually taken to hospital by an ambulance. Worrying scenes for both sets of players to see a colleague leave the pitch in those circumstances. It later came to light that Jamie suffers from a fractured elbow, speedy recovery Jamie. To add insult to injury Glacis United equalised soon after following a needless free kick. Indeed, it felt more like a physical kick! Was fortune once again going to play its fickle games with us?

Not if Pishu Hernandz had anything to do with it. A few minutes had passed from the equaliser when Aymen, with his second assist of the game fed Pishu. I shall let the video do the talking;

Hero @pishuHernandez on today's win:

"When they scored it didn't feel right and after never giving up, we got back our 3 deserved points." pic.twitter.com/uIPPPYNCen

— Gibraltar United (@GibraltarUnited) May 6, 2017

The poise and clam this young man showed in front of the goal belied his years. Indeed a footballing gem in the making. The fight left the Glacis players despite a huge 7 minutes of added time. The result was like manna from heaven for United but it also meant that St Joseph’s mathematically qualified for the UEFA Europa League next season by cementing the 3rd place in the league. For United it meant breathing space between us and Man 62 and leap frogging Lions into 7th place with 2 two games to go. Morale was up and the players are already looking forward to locking horns with Europa FC this coming Friday.

https://twitter.com/AymenWilli/status/860955025174134785

What. A. Win! Massive shift from the lads in what could be a crucial 3 pts in our fight for survival! 🇬🇮 ⚽️ @GibraltarUnited #piña #toplads pic.twitter.com/8CGiIqcHeF

— Paul Podesta (@ppodesta14) May 6, 2017

Fractured elbow and forearm but we got the 3 points we needed! Thanks for the messages…vamos @GibraltarUnited ⚽️⬆️ pic.twitter.com/6mPjpKcXfV

— Jamie Bosio (@JamieBosio21) May 6, 2017

 

Lions Football Club vs Gibraltar United Football Club

Match corresponding to the 24th Round of the Gibraltarian Premier Division and played on Saturday 29th April at 16:30. Match report brought to you courtesy of Turicum Private Bank.

Gibraltar United Football Club  0 – 0 Lions Football Club

Gibraltar United Football Club

1   Kyle ‘Chino’ Goldwin
3   Ashley Perez
5   Jason Pusey
21 Erin Barnett
19 Brad Power
8   Andrew ‘Pishu’ Hernandez
24 Jamie Bosio
15 Aymen Mouehli
6   Dexter Panzavechia
4   Anthony Hernandez
7   Robert Montovio (C)

SUBSTITUTES

Evan Green on for Dexter Panzavechia
Paul Podesta on for Robert Montovio
Ashley Rodriguez on for Jamie Bosio

A crucial game in the fight for survival in which 3 points were vital to both teams. Manolo recalled Anthony to the starting line up dropping Evan Green to the bench alongside Ashley Rodriguez who gave up his starting berth to a recovered Jason Pusey.

Gibraltar United showed off its intent from the start and took the game to Lions from the kick off. Conscious of the fact that a win would certainly ease tensions the Red and White players began an intense press of Lions as they tried to get the ball out of their half. This tactic almost provided instant dividends as Robert Montovio was able to capitalise on defensive mistake to find some space on the left. His driven shot on goal sailed over the crossbar. United on the up and Lions somewhat pegged into their half.

The game would continue in the same vein for much of the first half but with little action for either keeper. Lions stopper, Szpilczynski, however was forced into a tremendous save by Anthony Hernandez as the latter dribbled past some static Lions defenders to try and curl one from the D. Alas it was not to be and credit to the Pole in Goal for keeping his team in the game. Lions’ attacking forays were few and far between with Caravaca mostly taking the danger to Chino’s goal. A challenge that he was more that eager to meet with two outstanding saves, most notably one made on the 46th minute when Caravaca tried to lob the onrushing keeper. As Mr Barcelo called time United looked frustrated that they had been unable to pierce the Orange and Blue defence despite dominating both territory and possession.

The second half started pretty much in the same vein but United’s profligacy in front of goal was plain to see. Montovio and Pishu mishit clear and open chances while the keeper did well to save a Pusey header from the corner. As the minutes continued to tick by the nerves were palpable. Green and Podesta were thrown into the fray as Nuñez sought the win. Yet a team launched so forward would always be open to a counter, but Barnett and Power led by the majestic Pusey, were always comfortable at the back.

As is customary, Mr Barcelo would be involved in some contentious decisions during the game. The officials always have a most difficult job to carry out, more so in games of this nature, but there are times when the calls are so clear that one beggars belief. Two penalty incidents dominated the last 15 minutes. First it was Evan Green who was able to get possession in the 6 yard box with his back to goal and only the keeper to beat. Out rushed the keeper who felled Evan with a tackle from behind. The whole stadium knew it was a penalty, even the keeper looked sheepishly at the referee. Well the whole stadium except the man in black who waved for a corner!

A second controversial incident was to follow. An umpteenth United corner led to a cleared header by the the Lions defence.  The ball fell to an unmarked Green on the edge of the box who unleashed a sweetly struck volley goalwards. The ball struck Lions’ center half Perez on an outstretched hand that he shook with pain such was the force of the shot. All 22 players froze, United’s celebrating the call somewhat prematurely, as surely Mr Barcelo could not miss this one. The result: play on from the keeper as the referee waved his arms and continued with the game. Unthinkable with cries of ‘Specsavers’ from United supporters in the stands.

The game petered out, despite one last wasted opportunity by Podesta who was easily muscled out of possession. Lions in effect had done a Gib United and weathered the Red and White storm, that despite, two clear penalty claims, suffered from a lack of killer instinct in front of the goal. Yet a third game without defeat but a disappointing result. Our fate is still in our hands with three games to go, Glacis United up next Saturday at 16:15.

The ref calls time on the game.

Lynx Football Club vs Gibraltar United Football Club

 

Match corresponding to the 23rd round of the Gibraltarian Premier Division and played on Saturday 22nd April 2017 at 16:30. This match report is brought to you courtesy of Turicum Private Bank

Gibraltar United Football Club 1 – 1 Lynx Football Club

Bosio

Gibraltar United Football Club

1  Kyle ‘Chino’ Goldwin
3  Ashley Perez
19 Brad Power
15 Aymen Mouelhi
21 Erin Barnett
8  Andrew ‘Pishu’ Hernandez
9 Evan Green
24 Jamie Bosio
26 Ashley Rodriguez
6  Dexter Panzavechia
7  Robert Montovio (C)

SUBSTITUTES

Paul Podesta on for Evan Green
Anthony Hernandez on for Ashley Rodriguez
Kaylan Rumbo on for Robert Montovio

Following on from the morale boosting point against St Jospeh’s last time our United’s players were seeking to capitalise on a Lynx FC that had seemed very out of sorts in their last game out against Lions. Manolo welcomed back Robert and Ashley back into the first eleven. The former was back after a short injury lay off and the latter was back in midfield due to Aymen having to drop back into defence to cover the loss of Jason Pusey through injury. Paul Podesta also made a berth on the bench for the first time in 6 weeks after recovering from injury.

Pre-kickoff huddle!

Blustery levanter conditions faced all the 22 players at kick off with Lynx FC having the benefit of playing with the winds at their backs. It wasn’t long however before they were able to gain a more significant advantage. With United seeking to dominate the ball and get some passing game going Erin uncharacteristically dithered on the ball just outside our area. Lynx’s pacey forward, Kamara, was quick to spot this and rapidly closed down on Erin. Whether nerves or the fact that the game was only two minutes old, Erin was caught flat footed, lost possession and Kamara had rifled Lynx into a lead. United players and supporters were shell shocked at such an early set back but despite some dominance from the Yellows United soon took command of the match.

Dexter and Jamie Bosio were starting to impose themselves on the left side of midfield and gradually we began to push the Yellow and Black lines back. Dexter in particular was getting the best of the right back and began to put in some telling crosses. In one particular action Evan Green cut in front of Mosquera to latch onto a cross ball but tamely struck it with his weaker foot into the hands of a grateful Tellez in goal. Indeed special mention must go to man mountain Mosquera who was by far and away Lynx’s man of the match as he headed and batted away any ball we crossed into the box. As Mr Canepa called time on the first half United’s players could go into the dressing room happy that they could look forward to a second half with the wind at our backs and in our sails after a commanding fight back.

Players walk off at half time.

Manolo made two changes at half time that were to have a massive impact on the game. Podesta was introduced to combat the immense Mosquera and Anthony was brought on to bring his skill and poise to our attack. United dominated the half from the kick off with an effective pressing on Lynx’s rear guard players that forced them into a lot of unforced errors. Podesta was starting to win the physical battle with Mosquera and Robert was starting to feed on the second balls as a result. Yet it was from corners that United were going to be the most dangerous. Perez floated one in from the right that had Tellez flapping all over his goal and a resulting Hernandez corner from the left brought the equaliser.

Anthony floated in a peach of ball that almost drifted driectly into the goal. With Tellez struggling to get to the ball he was barley able to palm it out. Credit to the keeper to getting to it but the ball fell to Jamie Bosio who cannoned the ball into the back of the net for his third goal of the season and a deserved equaliser for a United team that were giving their all for the three points. Supporter, Vanessa Correa, was able to get the goal on video from the stands.

Goal from @JamieBosio21 for @GibraltarUnited ⚽⚽ @GibraltarUnited 1-1 @Lynxfcgib pic.twitter.com/KVgO4tvMvj

— Vanessa Correa (@vanessa190783) April 22, 2017

Its 1-1!

United continued to press after the restart with Lynx clearly affected by the goal. Another clear chance went begging when Anthony elected to try his luck from distance when he had free runners on either wing. Another chance went by the wayside when Lynx centre half, Hall, almost headed a Perez corner into his own net. Yet Lynx, with Mosquera at the fulcrum, weathered wave after wave of Red and White attacks (not a phrase we have used often this season!). Indeed Chino was largely a spectator for most for the second 45.

The game ultimately petered out as energy levels dropped on both sides. Having battled the elements and each other for 95 minutes both teams left the field with a point but United players knew they could have won all three. Attention now turns to Lions FC and perhaps the biggest game of the season next week. Kick off Saturday afternoon at 16:30!