Manhattan Celtic 1 - 2 FC Bulgaria
After a thrilling contest FC Bulgaria started with an away victory, in their first game in 2nd division. The promoted side was on the back foot for long periods of time but somehow found the resilience and managed to overturn the 1 goal deficit in the last 3rd of the game.
The weather was beautiful for football and the 9:30 pm kick off created a tense atmosphere around the Pier 40 field in Manhattan. Manhattan Celtic were dominating possession in the first half. The Lions' midfield was struggling and the whole tem needed to defend firmly and together. For all their possession though the hosts didn't create any clear cut chances. A strong display by the backline restricted them to a few long range efforts that didn't trouble Koko. On their part FC Bulgaria were largely anonymous in attack with Galin and Aram proving the most threatening. Unfortunately Galin got a hard knee knock and had to be substituted in the 40th minute. The home side was very physical and the 0-0 score-line was fair at half time.
Stefan came on in the second half but the home side still continued pressing for a goal and finally got it in the 63rd minute. Andro was arguably fouled on the right side but there was no whistle, consequently Koko was beaten at the near post with a low drive from 20 yards. A goal behind the bulgarians were up against it. In the 75th the visitors won a corner. Bobby delivered it the ball was cleared back to him, with everybody crumbled in the 6 yard box, he picked out Boho who was unmarked at the penalty spot. The #10 volleyed the ball first time into the top of the net and send the away fans in extacy. In the last 15 minutes the lions took complete control and deservingly in the 85th Ico Scored a cracking winner. Andro beat his marker on the right and found Stefan who back-flicked it to Ico, he faked his marker and drove an unstoppable shot from the right side that left the keeper stranded. We managed to hold off a late charge especially when the hosts rattled the post in the last minute, but all the boys fought hard for this victory.
On a different note the Reserve side lost 4-0 to Mnahattan Celtic. Our side made their debut and it will probably take some time before they gel as a team. There were some very encouraging displays from the youngsters and the first team will follow their development.
Line up: 1.Koko 2.Angel 5.Joro 6.Mladen (12.Ico) 3.Doktora 18.Aram 13.Bobby R. 15.Stambeto 14.Andro 19.Galin 10.Boho (Ivan)
©2006
FC Bulgaria