WHILE Margaret River went down 2-0 against Perth Jaguars, coach Paul Brown said the team battled hard.
Margaret River hosted Perth Jaguars on Saturday in the first round of the FFA Cup.
This is the equivalent of the English version of the FA Cup.
After a hugely successful pre-season carnival, the local team were keen to see if they could continue their strong form into this game.
The game was played at a very high tempo and both teams were playing at a very high standard.
You knew from the outset that this was going to be a very tight affair as both defences were not giving anything away, and it was going to be the team who took their chances on the day.
The half time whistle blew with score line at 0-0 which suggest a boring game but this could not be further from the case, as both teams had chances but failed to put the ball in the net.
The highlight of the first half was the outstanding save from Margaret River goalkeeper Ian Scott who tipped the ball over the cross bar from a shot that came from point blank range.
The second half was a repeat of the first and both teams were getting edgier as the game wore on.
Margaret River had a ten minute spell midway through the second half where they had numerous chances to take the lead but failed to beat the keeper.
Such is the case in sport you have to take your chances, and with ten minutes to go Perth Jaguars took the lead from a scrappy goal, giving the visitors the lift they needed.
They made it 2-0 shortly after with a strike that was worthy of winning any game.
Although Margaret River battled hard they couldn’t find a way through a resolute Jaguars defence and the final whistle blew to end an epic game.
Congratulations to all players on a hugely entertaining game and a big thank you the Augusta Margaret River Football Club for their assistance in hosting the game.
If anyone is interested in playing this season please contact Coach Paul Brown 0417 967 591.
Next week both Ladies and Men’s teams travel to Bunbury for the first round of the Pioneer cup.
Photos by Anthony Pancia.
