Round 3: Rosso Nero FC Spirit Shine Against Tough Ravioli

Round 3, the first full season game, saw us with yet another reshuffled lineup. With half the team nursing injuries or returning from them, and Brett back after a three-month break, we knew we were up against it facing our toughest opponents, Ravioli.

Before the game, CJ masterfully tasked Brett with man-marking Ravioli's key playmaker/goal scorer – a tactical masterstroke. Brett, deservedly man of the match, effectively neutralised their danger man. It was a cracking duel, a real highlight of the game, with both players battling fiercely for the ball.

The first half saw Rosso Nero FC create the better chances, but Ravioli's keeper pulled off some brilliant saves to keep them in the game. CJ, Dan, Brett, and Alex all had shots that would've been goals on any other night.

The second half was just as tight. Ravioli had their best chance, but Danny made a fingertip save on the line. Then, Ravioli's keeper again came to the rescue, diving to his left for another fingertip save from CJ's curling first-time shot.

With Brett tiring and subbing off, Ravioli’s playmaker finally had some space. Sure enough, with his first real chance, he cut inside and fired a near-post shot past the defender and Danny.

This forced Rosso Nero FC to ramp up the pressure, pushing forward. However, we couldn't find the net. CJ, defending on the counter, jockeyed the attacker, who unleashed a shot that went through CJ's legs (touching both ankles) and flew bottom corner into the net, leaving Danny with no chance.

This goal took the wind out of our sails, but we didn't give up. A slick triangle pass between Alex, CJ, and Brett created our best chance, but Brett's one-on-one effort was thwarted by another incredible save from the Ravioli keeper.

With three minutes left, Ravioli scored a third, a long-range shot that which was off target, took an unlucky deflection off Ant feet, sending it into the bottom corner.

The final score: Ravioli 3, Rosso Nero FC 0.

Despite the result, it was a hard-fought game where the team showed true Rosso Nero FC spirit and fight, never giving up and battling to the final whistle.

See you all next week.