Club de Atletismo Los Olmos v FC Británico

Recap

‘Ollllllmos,olllllmos,ollllmmmossss’ rang from the terraces, the ref didn’t like us much either nor our own touchline for swathes of this game as britanicos navigated a trickier challenge than league positions suggested. Some were less surprised and had spotted an upturn in the form of Olmos, who represent a young improving side that will match most for the remainder of the season. Against the swirling wind, there was a flatness to the first half. Britanicos were largely defensively solid, the return of Marco providing assurance at the back but struggled to find much rhythm with ball. Further up the pitch there were moments, but only moments. These largely came from Yarron playing the quarter back role as he picked out Omar and Josh for half chances.

Rami gave some poised half time words to encourage a lift of intensity whilst Head Coach Simon wanted better ball retention and an upturn in quality. It took its time to come in increasingly demanding conditions but, when it did, it was a thing of beauty. The ball was passed through the team from the back with Ed breaking the defensive line with a clever flick to Will. Will drove forward with pace and provided an excellent assist for Pádraig to fire home his 26th goal of the season. Britanicos felt in control and started to open up Olmos. Chances were created and missed as Paco couldn’t quite replicate his Friday form and convert an open goal. Omar came close with the 50p and Pádraig hit the bar.

It just wouldn’t go in and the inevitable sucker punch occurred as some slack marking at a set piece allowed the Olmos number 21 a half chance. He hit a strong strike which left Marco no chance.

The game got chaotic with both teams pushing for the result. On came Dorus, on came Luigi, on came Landon (aka Rasmus Hojlund). All brought some renewed energy but it was Landon that made the telling contribution. A half clearance saw the ball fall to Sutcliffe, who caressed an exquisite through ball to the young American. Landon raced through beating the Olmos keeper in air with a delightful and brave finish. Cue absolute scenes!! Bedlam erupted for the celebrations as Britanicos felt a transcendent sense of the triumph of character! ‘Olmos! Olmos! Ol….shhhhhhhhhh!’

The football certainly wasn’t the most easy on eye but the lads showed a great degree of belief, patience and cutting edge in some pretty hostile conditions. That’s 7 wins from 7 games, the most goals scored and the least conceded in 2024. A fantastic run no doubt, but Britanicos are aware that some real tests remain in the final 9 games. For now, this one felt nice. ‘Diez más Jarras por favor’.