MATCH REPORT; Hamden 2 Madison 3

Report by Arniesto, Pics supplied by Jorge!

The second law of thermodynamics states that natural systems tend to move from order toward chaos. This is known as entropy. Madison Celtic FC, however, flies in the face of this immutable law of nature, as was witnessed, yet again, in this week’s match against bottom-of-the table Hamden. Disorder reigned supreme at kickoff, and slowly, steadily by the end of the game, order had been restored. Hamden’s first goal came about after a remarkably chaotic string of events, a bad call by the ref that gave Hamden a throw-in, a range of Celts arguing the call and not continuing play even as Hamden took the throw, culminating in a hand ball in the box and a shot from the spot that careened chaotically off the side post and in. In another blink of an eye, a well-struck corner by Hamden found the head of a totally unmarked man making a strong run in the center of the box, and Madison found themselves two in the hole. From here on in, however, order finally started to form on the Madison side, and soon Safet found himself behind the defense on the wing with Arniesto running hard for the near post, and what would have been a perfect pass was knocked astray by the outstretched hand of the defender. After a few moments of a bit more chaos as teammates tried to decide who would take the penalty, Jorge slotted a crisp shot past the outstretched hands of the keeper, and where once there was chaos and despair, hope and order returned.
Early on in the second half, Carlito stood over the ball, preparing to take a direct kick from 40 yards out. The clouds parted and angels descended and carried his shot over the futile hands of the keeper--yet again. Next week, I'm expecting a golaso from midfield or farther.
With the Celts even, they played with renewed vigor, looking more and more threatening with each passing minute, and with not much time remaining, a beautifully struck corner by Halil came in hard and head-level, and Arniesto went up with the goalie, perhaps just enough to make him flub his catch. The ball dribbled to the ground and into the waiting feet of Jorge, who netted his second of the match, and the winner for Madison.





Man of the match? Most obvious would be Jorge, with a brace of goals, or Carlito for yet another divine strike from distance. But since this is my first (and perhaps my last) ever match report, I'm naming myself man of the match for my indirect, but essential involvement in two goals--and just because I can.... Here's hoping for our next match that we start strong and finish strong.
I'm also hoping to see Hulk and Flacito's $100 bet played out on the field next week after the game--and thanks to Hulk for some choice early-morning brewskis--it was 5PM in Scotland, at least, I believe...