Pioneers Held by Dutch Masters

Dutch Masters 1 Richmond Pioneers 1

On a beautiful, warm spring day, the Richmond Pioneers travelled to Sunset Park to take on Dutch Masters and had to settle for a 1-1 draw.

In this game, the penultimate match of the winter season, the Pioneers performance had a distinct 'winding down' feel to it, although there remains one more stiff test when Aldergrove come to McMath next week for the season finale.

The bumpy surface at Sunset Park was hardly conducive to the Pioneers favoured passing style, and the early play was ragged as both teams struggled to settle down.
Dutch Masters struck first after 10 minutes on a free kick from just outside the penalty area, as the Pioneers vulnerability to set plays was once again evident.

The Pioneers would tie it up midway through the half. Seconds after the Dutch Masters frantically cleared off their goal-line, Graham Mason whipped in a Beckham-like cross from the right wing that was met full volley by Denis Harvington, a stunning Zidanesque strike from close range. A goal of 'Real' quality.

This game was one of few chances for either team, as both defences were uncompromising. For the Pioneers, Mike Mogul and Bob Heron were playing very well.

The Dutch Masters hustled hard throughout the game, determined not to repeat the 4-1 loss they suffered in January at McMath. Although the Pioneers displayed some nice approach work, the final pass was lacking on too many occasions.

As the game went on, the Pioneers did most of the pressing, and the best chance to break the deadlock came late in the second half. After good combination play by Harvington and Mason on the left wing, Harvington's pinpoint cross found Ken Johnston, only for the team's leading marksman to shoot directly at the keeper from close range.

Man of the Match: Left back Bob Heron.

Next Week: Aldergrove #1 at McMath.

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