Powell River United Over 35 men’s football club travelled to Salt Spring Island on Sunday, February 24, with a full roster of players looking to take the first step in their quest for a Tony Grover Cup.
Due to travelling, United had little time for a warm-up and started off the game flat. Salt Spring took advantage of the situation and was able to put United on its heels for the first 15 minutes, resulting in a couple of very close chances on net.
United had to adapt to a field that was in pretty rough shape and also had a few mud pits, resulting in passes and touches by players being tough. The team, however, did settle down and started to get some solid possession and control back when striker Lee Illing was taken down in the 18-yard box, resulting in a penalty shot for United. Brent Garroway stepped up and calmly slotted the ball into the back of the net for a 1-0 United lead.
From there United controlled most of the play and was rewarded when a scramble in front of the Salt Spring net allowed Aaron Cramb to pounce on a loose ball and make it 2-0.
United’s third goal came when Garroway neatly let a ball go by him to a running Tony Carroll who made no mistake putting it away. United went to the half with a 3-0 lead and a comfortable hold on the game.
The second half started with both teams battling until a great goal by Shezad Somji. After a nice run down the wing, Somji blasted a shot into the top corner of the net giving the Salt Spring keeper no chance at a save.
United then seemed to relax due to the large lead and got caught playing some sloppy defence which allowed Salt Spring the opportunity to put one away behind goalie Rick Bombadir.
Up 4-1, United regained its composure until super sub Neil Bastock made a great run into the box and blasted a beautiful goal to make it 5-1 United. United tightened up its defence and was able to finish off the game strong being unlucky to not have scored a couple more.
The game ended with United racing to the ferry with a 5-1 win. The team now moves into the quarter finals with a game against Bays United from Victoria. The game kicks off at 12:15 pm on Sunday, March 3 at Timberlane Park.
