Lions beaten by Belstone in Herts Trophy
London Lions’ miserable November continued as they suffered a second round exit in the Herts Centenary Trophy, falling to their fifth defeat in seven games.
Herts FA Centenary Senior Trophy:
Belstone FC 5 London Lions 3
Saturday, 8 November, 2014
Worrying times as Lions once again completely capitulated defensively and if it hadn’t been for an inspired performance from Mario Cenolli in the Lions goal, the final score could have been even greater.
With the game balanced at 2-2 with 30 minutes remaining, Lions vulnerability at the back once again proved costly. Ultimately until the side get a regular, consistent and balanced back four this is an issue that will continue to be a thorn in the side.
Benji Weinberger scored a good goal to draw Lions level just after 20 minutes, but they fell behind again 10 minutes before half-time, going in 2-1 down.
Lions had good possession in periods of the first-half, but very little penetration in the final third. Josh Kennet, Max Kyte, Andy Glynne and TJ Keterman all threatened, but at the last moment good opportunities broke down either from a poor decision or lack of end product.
Cenolli in the Lions goal however, kept Lions in the match almost single handily, pulling off save after save. Fifteen minutes into the second-half and Lions substitute Jamie Nagioff, without question scored the goal of the game and Lions equaliser. Bursting down the Lions left he cut in and launched a screamer into the top left hand extension of the goal. It was the perfect goal to lift Lions and inspire them to go on and win the game.
But the fuse didn’t ignite. In fact Cenolli once again kept Belstone at bay as the Lions goal came under increasing pressure. Eventually Lions were punished as the pressure became too much and Cenolli was beaten a further three times in the final 30 minutes following some tired and lacklustre defending.
Winning becomes a habit but so does losing. Lions need to ride out this difficult period, try and find a greater commitment and consistency from players and one win will bring back some much needed confidence.
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