ac milanda afc

A change of formation failed to bring a change in fortune as Milanda lost for the second time this season to Pursuers.
The surroundings were familiar, Greenfield having been Milanda's previous home for a number of years, and so were the problems within the team. A 3-4-3 formation should have provided opportunities to pressurise the Pursuers back four but passing was poor and movement lacking which meant few clear-cut chances were created. Admittedly, a few players were missing but none of those who turned out in this one can be faulted for effort. So if we are collectively doing our best and it isn't good enough we have a problem.

Pursuers opened the scoring after 40 minutes but Milanda quickly replied with a route-one goal. Craig Fawns' kick-out was flicked on in the air by Martin Coyle and Martin Johnstone ran on to slam the ball past the keeper.

With Paul Malone working hard in the right-wing back role and Andy Scott doing likewise on the left, Milanda appeared to be holding their own at the start of the second half and there was certainly optimism on the sidelines of a successful conclusion. Gerry Evans, operating in a new role at sweeper, was providing a bit of security at the back with timely interceptions and promising counter-attacks were being made on the back of some of them.However, decision making is a big part of the game and too often Milanda went for the wrong option.

A good second-half chance fell to John Gibson when he got behind a square defence but he decided not to go for the one-on-one with the keeper and shot hurriedly off target from 25 yards. A goal then would have put Milanda 2-1 ahead but instead defensive frailties appeared and Pursuers struck twice to take a 3-1 lead.

Coyle headed home a Brian Traynor corner late on to reduce the deficit but there wasn't enough time to score again.

MOTM: Gerry Evans adapted well to playing at the back but we could have done with another Gerry Evans further forward.