What a grand final! A seesaw battle with lead changes every five minutes, this high-scoring match had it all, even for the eventual runners-up.
Rosso Nero FC, fielding yet another altered lineup, started on the back foot, yet struck first, taking an early 1-0 lead within the first five minutes.
Running Late responded quickly, applying extra pressure and scoring two goals in rapid succession to grab the lead.
Rosso Nero FC fought back, scoring two goals of their own to regain the lead at 3-2. Running Late then answered with two more goals to retake the lead with five minutes remaining in the first half.
Showing true grit, Rosso Nero FC scored their fourth goal to tie the game up by halftime.
During the break, the team strategised to mark two key Running Late players to shut down their quick attacks. The second half began with Rosso Nero FC scoring first, going up 5-4.
Running Late then surprised Rosso Nero FC with a long-distance shot that leveled the score, followed by another goal to take the lead once more.
Never giving up, Rosso Nero FC equalised with seven minutes left on the clock. Running Late answered again, scoring their seventh goal with six minutes remaining.
Rosso Nero FC relentlessly pushed for the equaliser. With five minutes remaining, Nuno received a yellow card (two minutes off) for a questionable call. Despite being down a player, Rosso Nero FC continued to attack. Alex had a shot saved, then a header went just over the bar, Dan had a shot saved around the corner, and then came the final corner of the match with six seconds left. Dan rose for a header, beating the keeper, but the ball agonisingly went millimeters wide of the post. Even the referee was poised to award the goal.
The game ended with Running Late 7, Rosso Nero FC 6.
It was a cracking game, and both teams left the pitch with their heads held high.
Not the ending Rosso Nero FC was hoping for, but they gave it everything they had.
Thank you to everyone who came down to watch, your support is greatly appreciated.
See you all next season!
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