By Guest Writer Christopher "I used to be from Grand Blanc but now I claim to be an Eastsider" Hallstrand:
The same story time and time again for the lowly Bulls....can't finish. The game started off ragged as both teams had to adjust to the 6-inch pitch, but after figuring out the weight of the pass the Bulls took over possession and control of the game. While outnumbering their opponent with 8 extras and the steady rotation of subs to continue the dominance with speed of play and quick passes, the Bulls couldn't take advantage on their opportunities. Time and time again a solid build up would finish with the shot leaving a lot to be desired, normally going high or wide (maybe both). Despite what seemed to be Cash Now packing it in and trying to counter, it was the Bulls tough defense and midfield play that carried the first half. Two instances lead the Crybaby to berate the officials in an attempt to earn a penalty when it appeared that a Cash Now defender had handled the ball in the area, but with no avail. Halftime 0-0.
A quick halftime yelling at by the ever so grouchy Coach B lead the Bulls out to a quick start in the 2nd half. A couple plays involving new signee Nathan Markee allowed the Bulls to create some chances leading the way to the first goal of the game. While pressing the Cash Now defense and earning a throw-in deep in their rivals territory, throw in Specialist Ronnie Thomas launched a ball to the 6 yard box where, still used to be skinny, Chris Hallstrand pushed off defender Tony Acardo and flicked home the opener to the far upper 90. 1-0 BULLS. This looks like it was just what they needed to bring the onslaught of goals. UH-OH, 5 minutes later the sails were deflated when a shot hit defender Mikey (Twin 2) Farrar in the arm and the officials ruled it a penalty. This was utterly surprising considering they had let two hand balls on Cash Now go in the first half. Adam Pruitt stepped up and buried it high and down the middle, nothing Keeper Geoff Gayle could do. The next 10 minutes the Bulls lost their edge, quickly reverting back to the whining and crying about every call, even when they got the calls. In the 65th minute Cash Now struck again!! Pruitt took advantage of a free kick from 40 out and layed it over the holding line of the Bulls and their new signee Ryan Farris got through and slotted it home. 1-2 and dominating game. With desperation the Bulls tried to tie it up. Rick McQueary hit the post and Nathan Markee put a solid header on goal in the final few minutes to come close, but Bulls lose, AGAIN!
Even though moral victories are for losers, the Bulls can take some solace in the game. (1) The Bulls defense didn't allow a shot on goal except for the two in the net (similar to USA vs. Spain); (2) They moved the ball better than last game and dominated possession of play; and (3) The teams will likely clash again in regular season and probably in playoffs. Regardless, the Bulls are the ones that should be playing desperate against their rivals. They are now 1-4-1 in the last 6 against Cash Now!!!!!!!!!
Editor's Note: Some pictures from the game can be viewed below.
Game Summary:
Scoring:
ET - Hallstrand (Markee)- 49'
CN - Pruitt - 54'
CN - Farris (Pruitt) - 65'
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