COPPA ACLI - FINAL: Ambrit 9-2 Forte Bravetta

 On a hot Sunday afternoon, Ambrit brought the curtain down on the 21/22 season in style, winning the Cup Final by a seven goal margin.

And yet, after 19' of the first half, the sides were still level. Pedro had come closest, winning the ball with a strong tackle on the edge of the area and shooting well but the keeper made a great save. Alberto glanced a header just wide but it was Ale who turned and shot from 20m to open the scoring. Ale made it 2-0 shortly afterwards off an Emilio assist (looking good for next year!) and then Ale passed to Alberto for a third goal.

Santiago scored immediately in the second half: 4-0. Bertie made it 5 after some neat passing from Emilio to Ale and then Bertie almost scored again, but his header rebounded off the post. Forte Bravetta nicked a goal themselves but Emilio got onto the scoresheet - another Ale assist - to make it 6-1 and Santiago struck a ball sweetly from 30m into the top corner to make it 7-1. Theo set up Giorgio for number 8, Bravetta made it 8-2 but Bertie had the last word.

CONGRATULATIONS to Alessandro Ambra, capocannoniere this year with 30 ACLI goals!!

COPPA ACLI (2007/2008): Ambrit 4-2 Santa Caterina

 Was this Ambrit's best performance of the year? Probably. Was this Ale's best match of the year? Definitely. Against a re-worked Santa Caterina of 2007 players + two 'fuori quota', Ambrit kept their shape, played the better football and, in Ale, had a ruthless and clinical finisher up front.

The game started badly: Santa Caterina broke through on the left and shot past Mattia to make it 1-0. But, to Ambrit's credit, they came right back at their opponents immediately. The first goal was a gem. Santiago won the ball in defence, pushed forcefully into midfield, waited for the defenders to commit themselves and then played a perfect pass to Ale, who made just enough space for himself to shoot the ball home.

Not long after Ale received another ball, this one much more difficult to control. But his first touch was good, his second was better and his third made it 2-1. And now Ambrit were reduced to 7 players, the referee rightly sanctioning Santiago's lack of shin pads and socks. Ambrit played the next 12 minutes with one player less but, undeterred, they made it 3-1... this time Ale latching onto the through ball and beating the goalkeeper with a perfectly-judged lob. 3-1, half time and now Santiago was back with his shin pads.

The second half was a war of attrition. A lot of fouls, a lot of shots, a few close escapes at either end, some great saves from Mattia and then a fouth Ambra goal (his 28th of the season). This time it was a long throw from the left that found Ale at the far post. His header came back off the post, then off the keeper and then in.

All this should mean that Ambrit's LAST GAME of the season will be the FINAL of the COPPA ACLI on Sunday morning (19 June).

COPPA ACLI (2007/2008): Ambrit 4-2 Vigna Pia

 Ambrit began slowly today but eased more and more into their stride as the game wore on, emerging victorious thanks to an astute second-half performance.

Vigna Pia deservedly took an early lead but luckily this served more to wake up the Ambrit players than to demoralise them. The eqialiser came when Vittorio found Pedro with a pinpoint pass from 40 meters away and Pedro conjured up a magical finish to leave the Vigna Pia goalkeeper clutching at thin air.

Ambrit began the second half well and Ale was finding more space on the right. After 3', he scored to make it 2-1. Bernardo (in the first half) and now Mattia had been making good saves all day but Mattia made an extraordinary save halfway through the second half when he threw a desperate right hand to deflect away a certain goal! But Vigna Pia did equalise two minutes later: 2-2 and another grandstand finish!

Ambrit came forward again, playing through the middle. As the ball bobbled back from another tackle, who was there to shoot? Carlo! Yes, with a well-aimed shot into the corner of the goal, he put Ambrit 3-2 ahead. Now Vigna Pia threw everything into attack and Ambrit defended well... but they found time and space to counter too. And on one of these forays, Alberto got free on the right and timed a perfect pass to Zach who only had to turn the ball into an empty net to seal another win.

Teachers 3-4 Grade 8

 A historic victory today at Ambrit Stadium as grade 8 overcame the Teachers with a Golden Goal victory in overtime. It was Bertie who opened the scoring after 5', with Dylan adding a second before the Teachers had fully recovered from the shock.

The students changed their team and Mr. Jack, who had already impressed the crowd with a series of clever flicks and astute passing, slotted the ball past Lucas to make it 2-1. This second g8 team continued to disappoint and, when Mr. Francesco found himself with space in the penalty area, he turned and fired home an equaliser. The teachers had their tails up now and they took advantage of the tide when Mr Max met a corner with his head and crashed home the rebound after Lucas had saved the header: 3-2.

The students now sent in their last team and piled on the pressure. Alberto found the perfect glancing touch with his head to guide home a long throw from Santiago: 3-3... and so into 'golden goal' territory. Mr Max had the first chance and shot just past the right-hand post; Giorgio had the second chance but turned the ball outside the left-hand post. Aurora made a good chance for herself and was unlucky to shoot over. And then, inevitably, Giorgio pounced on some defensive confusion, shot the ball home and disappered under a wave of celebrating students!

 

Period 1: Myla, Theo, Vittoria, Zach, Emma, Jonah, Dylan, Lorenzo, Bertie

Period 2: Lucas, Adam, Bernardo, Sofia, Santiago, Isabel, Pedro, Mattia, Ben

Period 3: Lucas, Athena, Santiago, Maya, Cameron, Camila, Alberto, Aali, Giorgio

GIRLS FINAL: Russia 3-1 Mexico

 Colpo di scena all'Ambrit Arena: il favoritissimo Mexico, capace di conquistare ben 13 punti nel girone, viene surclassato dalla Russia della sorpresa Irene, che con una tripletta chiude la sfida e si prende la Palma di Migliore in campo.

E pensare che il Messico era andato in vantaggio con Emma, in quella che sembrava una partita dal risultato scontato. Tuttavia, dopo il vantaggio, il Messico ha progressivamente perso terreno, mentre la Russia ha iniziato a carburare e a prendere fiducia, trovando in Irene il terminale offensivo ideale per la rimonta e il sorpasso.

Le più attese della vigilia, Sara e Carolina, non hanno brillato, mentre le "seconde linee" hanno preso in mano la gara e sono state determinanti.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Irene 6, Emma 3, Rose 2, Ella K 2, Ella L 2, Carolina 1, Clara 1, Maya 1.

Coppa ACLI (2007/2008): Miracoli 2-3 Ambrit

 This game was a bit of a roller-coaster, with Ambrit's fortunes swinging up, then down and then finally up again in hard-fought finale.

Ambrit had numerous chances in the first half: Zach chipped he goalkeeper but saw the ball deflected narrowly wide; Ale shoy just wide, hen Zach again. Alberto too came close and Giorgio played Zach in for another chance but the goalkeeper made a great save. This kind of profligacy deserved to be punished - and it would have been were it not for the heroics of Mattia, in goal today. He made four great saves in the first half, three with his feet! Alberto had another pop at goal, Giorgio too from a Zach assist. Santiago shot wide and then nearly scored from a corner, and then the goal finally came, Zach's long throw glanced in off the head off Santiago. Giorgio had time to pick up a yellow card before half time.

In the second half, Miracoli were rewarded for some good football and equalised very quickly. Now they were coming forward and had a spare man in attack every time. Ambrit needed to get another defender in there but... too late: Miracoli scored again. Now Ambrit had to dig deep and find the energy to draw level again. Vittorio's free kick was cleared off the line and Mattia made two more great saves to keep Miracoli out. Alberto shot just wide and Santiago flicked a ball just wide too. But now Ale was in attack and moving defenders around with some good runs into space. Santi picked him out on one of these runs and Ale finished beautifully with a delicate shot over the goalkeeper. Ambrit nearly re-took the lead whn Ale passed to Pedro and his clever flick went out off the post. But it was the Santiago-Ale combo that came up trumps again and Ale finished it with the coolness that we have come to expect.

BOYS' FINAL: Brazil 0-1 Netherlands

After being heavily criticised following his team's semi-final defeat at the Med Cup, Mister Nikos answered his critics today with a masterful tactical victory over a Brazil who dominated possession but couldn't score.

The first period finished scoreless; the best chance fell to Ruben at the far post but his header went just wide. Daniel had a few half chances for Brazil and he made the best of them but lacked support. Santiago played a risky game in goal but his frequent forays up front proved fruitless.

The game's only goal came in the second period. Lorenzo, continuing in the fine vein of form that began in Verona and continued through the semi-final, made a great run down the left, beat two defenders and was tripped by the thir defender as he turned into the penalty area: penalty! Converted by Lorenzo!! 1-0!!!

Brazil threw everything at the Dutch in the last period but nothing much got past Giulio and Ben, and anything that did was ably dealt with by Giovanni. Interviewed after the game about his tactical approach, Mister Nikos declared: "The plan was to score first and then defend in depth". Simple but effective.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Lorenzo 8, Ben 5, Vittorio dP 5, Giulio 3, Giovanni 3, Santiago 2, Sam 1, Daniel 1

Germany 4-1 Argentina

 Argentina flattered to deceive at the beginning of today's match. Lucas fired his team ahead and Pedro looked like he might dominate in midfield again. But, as the match wore on, Pedro forgot how to pass and Lucas forgot how to score. Germany took full advantage. Theo grew into the game; Kevin was electric in midfield, Remy and Adam O were solid in the tackle and Aron had his best game yet. Mattia's pace up front unsettled the Argentinian defence and Mattia scored two goals and played the assist for Theo's goal too. Adam H and Dylan copuldn't drag Argentina back into it, but Ben played well in two positions and Victor made some crucial saves later on.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Victor 5, Kevin 5, Theo 3, Remy 3, Aron 2, Adam O 2, Adam H 2, Mattia 2, Ben M 2, Pedro 2

BOYS' semi-final penalty shoot-outs: RESULTS

Brazil 4-2 Germany

Netherlands 4-3 Argentina

AOSR Tournament: AMBRIT Wins all Six Matches!

 Ambrit's g8 team rode into Roma Nord on Saturday morning and swept aside all opposition with a powerful display of teamwork that netted 31 goals in 6 games, conceding just 2.

Here is the story of the day....

Chapter 1: Hitting the post

Having established an early lead over Southlands 'A' with goals from Pedro and Zach, Theo was forced into an impressive double save to keep his team in front. Alberto hit the post, Zach scored again (kind of...), then he hit the post just before the end; good start... Ambrit 3-1 Southlands 'A'.

Chapter 2: Jonah takes Centre Stage 

Mattia was often Ambrit's fastest starter and he opened the scoring here: Brother Zach turned assisit-man and set up Theo and Pedro for goals two and three. And then Jonah took over. In an extraordinary 10' of inspired play, Jonah banged in four goals one after the other to the immense joy of his team-mates and supporters. With the opposition stunned into submission, Bertie applied the final, killer touch: Ambrit 8-0 Southlands 'B'.

Chapter 3: Stepping on Acorns 

Ambrit were caught napping at the start of this game but luckily Theo was awake and made a great save to keep the score at 0-0. The Bentsons then crafted one of the day's most beautiful goals: Mattia met Zach's perfect pass with a crisp first-time shot right into the corner of the net. Santi passed to Pedro for goal no. 2 and Zach passed to Santi for no. 3. Santiago added two more and Giorgio got onto the scoresheet for goal no. 6: Ambrit 6-0 Acorn.

Chapter 4: Botta e risposta... e poi qualche botta

This might have been a difficult game but Ambrit were now on a roll, in the zone and pretty unstoppable. Giorgio scored again and Alberto played in Zach for a second. Zach's throw produced a third when Alberto knocked it over the line and Pedro scored a fourth. Finding themselves 0-4 down, AOSR got a bit more physical but Ambrit matched them on the ball and off the ball and Alberto curled an exquisite fifth goal around the defender to give the goalkeeper no chance. Jonah, hungry for more goals, added a sixth. Ambrit 6-0 AOSR.

Chapter 5: San Giorgio 

New School maybe gave us our toughest game of the day... let's call them the dragon. No problem, we've got San Giorgio: he scored the first, set up the second (Zach) and the third (Zach), scored the fourth, set up the fifth (Pedro) and then used his psychic powers to help Alberto to score the sixth. Ambrit 6-0 New School.

Chapter 6: Inside Out

The last game of the day was against St. George's. Like us, they wear a red and blue jersey. They kindly turned their shirts inside out for this game and then Santiago et al proceeded to turn them inside out. Well, not really. This was a good team; this was a nervous match, this was a narrow win. Pedro scored first, Alberto scored later, St George's huffed, St. George's puffed but Ambrit won... again... well done... to all!

SEMI-FINAL: Argentina 1-1 Netherlands

 Another entertaining semi-final, another absorbing match, another 1-1 draw. Pedro had so many touches on the ball today, winning it in midfield and bringing it forward into attack. After some close shaves, it was a Pedro shot that put his team 1-0 up; Giovanni got to the ball with an acrobatic dive but he could only push into the corner instead of around the post. For a while it looked like Argentina might pull away, but the Netherlands were still creating chances. Ruben almost scored with a header but Lucas saved well and Antonio hit the bar with the rebound. Lorenzo had chances too but the Argentinian defence of Giulio P + Dylan was solid. Zach played as target man up front but Giulio T kept him largely under control. Adam and Vittorio had a good battle in midfield but Adam couldn't stop the grade 7 ace from scoring the equaliser.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Pedro 6, Vittorio 5, Giulio T 4, Antonio 3, Lorenzo 2,  Adam H 2, Giulio P 1, Ben M 1, Giovanni Z 1, Ruben 2, Dylan 1

PENALTY SHOOT-OUTS MONDAY LUNCHTIME!!!!!

Grade 7 students have exams but will be finished and can be in school for the penalties.

SEMI-FINAL 1: Brazil 1-1 Germany

 Santiago and Daniele were the two most dangerous attacking players on the field today and both of them made it onto to the score-sheet. Santiago scored first, taking advantage of a defensive error to smash the ball home.  Daniele's equaliser came with practically the last kick of the game, as he stuck out a foot to prod home an Ale shot past Santiago in goal. In between these two goals, both teams player good football. Theo was solid at the back for Germany, Bernardo for Brazil. Ale foraged well in midfield for Germany, Jonah did the same for Brazil. Marco was always available up front for Brazil; Adrian saved his team late on with a fantastic double save.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Santiago 5, Daniele 4, Ale 3, Adrian 3, Theo 3, Bernardo 3, Jonah 2, Kevin 2, Adam O 1, Marco 1, Daniel 1

COPPA ACLI: Simplicitas 1-1 Ambrit

 This was one of Ambrit's best performances of the year and it deserved to be crowned with more goals and with a victory. Despite creating chance after chance after chance, Ambrit found themselves 1-0 down and it stayed that way until well into the second half as chance after chance was wasted. Shots went wide, shots went over, shots were saved by a very good goalkeeper until finally, after spending most of the game in goal, Ale was played through and he fired a crisp lefty-footed shot past the goalkeeper to make it 1-1.

A lot of good performances today: Bernardo was excellent against a tough opponent; Carlo and Jonah cleared up everything when they came on but it was Captain Santiago who was really outstanding today. Determined, lucid and effective - both in attack and in defence - he totally led by example.

ANSPI: Ambrit 1-3 CRIS

 This was a very even game but Ambrit's inability to convert chances into goals cost them dearly. And things had stated so well! Ruben took a corner on the right and Gabriele came in on the far post and met the perfectly-flighted ball with a perfectly-judged header: 1-0.

CRIS equalised with a headed goal of their own before the first break and they then added a goal in each of the remaining periods to take the three points.

TEAM: Vittorio, Diego, Francesco, Gabriele, Sara, Aurora, Ben, Oliver, Ruben

Russia 0-0 Bolivia

 È la Russia che affronterà il Messico nella finalissima del torneo femminile: è bastato lo 0-0 a Carolina & Co per guadagnare il punto decisivo. Ottima prestazione in difesa di Aali ed Ella, molto attente alle incursioni di Camila e Aurora, mentre Rose e Irene hanno battagliato a centrocampo per guadagnare terreno e proporsi in avanti. Carolina, ha gestito le forze con intelligenza, cercando nel primo tempo di difendere e avanzando nel finale di partita per fare il colpaccio.

Sul lato sudamericano Bianca, Vittoria e Lavinia hanno corso pochi rischi, forse con qualche fallo di troppo, mentre la coppia d'attacco ha mancato la stoccata finale e non è riuscita a pungere.

PLAYER OF THA MATCH POINTS:

Vittoria 3,  Aali 3, Rose 3, Camila 3, Ella 3, Aurora 2, Bianca 2, Irene 1.

Australia 2-0 Bolivia

 L'Australia, quasi al completo, batte con una certa facilità la Bolivia, negando alle Sudamericane di giocare l'ultima partita prevista nel girone con la Russia in situazione di parità. Le reti tutte nel secondo tempo, una sfortunata autorete prima e un gol facile di Alice a conferma della superiorità di gioco e territoriale. 

Decisiva l'assenza di Camila, leader della Bolivia, reduce dall'ottima prestazione alla MedCup. Aurora e compagne hanno potuto solo assistere alla sconfitta e ora la strada per la finale si fa in salita, dato che ci sarà bisogno di una vittoria con una differenza reti importante.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Isabel 5, Abby 3, Alice 2, Vittoria 2, Bianca P 1, Aurora 1.

Russia 1-0 Mexico

 La Russia compie un passo decisivo verso la finale femminile 2022, battendo il favoritissimo Mexico, seppure grazie a uno sfortunato autogol. Non è stato facile infatti - fino ad ora - perforare la difesa centroamericana, che può schierare tra i pali la neopremiata "Best Goalkeeper" alla recente Mediterranean Cup, Myla. 

La partita è stata piuttosto equilibrata, con poche occasioni da una parte e dall'altra, ma l'autorete ha mescolato le carte in tavola e la Russia ne ha approfittato. A due partite dalla fine del girone, nulla è ancora deciso, se non la presenza del Mexico in finale: staremo a vedere!

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Irene 4, Myla 3, Clara 3, Carolina 2, Rose 2, Emma 1, Aali 1.

ACLI League: Third Place Final - Ambrit 3-0 Miracoli

 It was one of those days when the Ambrit team was compact, concentrated and concrete. Theo in goal and a starting backline of Santiago-Bernardo-Giorgio was solid. The first half was a very even affair. Ambrit started strongly, pushing back their opponents and forcing some mistakes. Not too many chances though - not too many shots - until Emilio almost scored... but the ball came back off the post. Miracoli were growing into the game though and their passing and movement was good. Theo was forced into making two very good saves. Then Ambrit went ahead. Giorgio curled an indirect free kick towards the far post... the goalkeeper flapped at the ball, touched it, and in it went: 1-0!

Ambrit did not allow Miracoli to settle into their stride in the second half. Santiago, who had one of those games where he seemed to be everywhere on the pitch, went on another mazy run that saw him drift past one defender, burst through two tackles and score the second goal. Giorgio added a third when he got on the end of a Zach throw-in and the 3-0 scoreline saw them comfortably over the line.

BOYS SEMI - FINALS

Wed May 18th: BRAZIL versus GERMANY

Fri May 20th: NETHERLANDS versus ARGENTINA

Netherlands 3-1 Belgium

 This Benelux derby was one of the best games of the year: exciting attacking movements, decisive defending and outstanding goalkeepers. Lorenzo was in fine form today and it was he who forced the first good save of the day, from Adriano. At the other end, Alberto tested Giovanni and then, as the play switched to and fro, Lorenzo shot just wide. Vittorio forced Adriano into another good save and thenBelgium took the lead when Carlo's shot was saved by Giovanni but turned in by Alberto on the rebound. It didn't take long for Netherlands to equalise: Ruben  pounced on some indecisive defending and rolled the ball past Adriano. 

In period 2, Vittorio forced his way past three opponents and fired a shot past Adriano to make it 2-1. Belgium then brought three saves out of Giovanni with shots in quick succession from Alby, Giorgio and then Alberto again. No goal though, and Lorenzo took advantage of the new spaces opening up to score again: 3-1. No more goals in period 3, with Gabriel making two fantastic saves from Antonio and Vittorio.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Lorenzo 6, Vittorio 6, Giovanni 5, Gabriele 4, Adriano 2,Antonio 1, Leo 1,  Carlo 1, Rocco 1, Alberto 1

ACLI (2007/2008): SEMI FINAL, Monteverde 6-1 Ambrit

 A tired Ambrit team was no match today for a Monteverde team that was determined to expolit home advantage to the full and secure their qualification for Saturday's final. Ambrit were never consistent with their tackling and were slow to the second ball and their opponents took full advantage. The team must now try to collect whatever reserves of energy they have and prepare for the Third-place play off on Saturday at 11.00.

Spain 4-1 Italy

 Returning to international duty after representing their school at in Verona, Italy disappointed their fans who expected more from the Med Cup finalists. Emilio crossed a ball for the first goal, Daniele P rising majestically to score with his head. Shots from Atena (over) and Emma (wide) gave the Italians some hope but Dani killed that off with a second goal. Matteo scored the best goal of the game, a cracker from 25 meters into the top corner and Captain Seb made it 4-0 off a Dani assist. Italy pulled one goal back to make the final score 4-1.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Matteo 5, Cameron 4, Abby 4, Emilio 3, Daniele 3, Sara 2, Bianca P 2, Seb 2, Trym 1, Hugo 1, Isabel 1

ALSI League (2007/2008) - Quarter Final: Ambrit 2-0 Simplicitas

 A good all-round team performance saw Ambrit through to a semi-final confrontation with Monteverde after a match in which this season's progress and improvement on the pitch were tangible. Santiago took over in goal and his competent performance spread confidence to the rest of the team. Theo played in defence and played very well, suggesting that this might be the way to go in the semi-final. Vittorio and Giorgio completed the starting defence and the opposition were limited to very few chances. Bernardo started in midfield and was very lively. An early shot went wide and an early header went just over the bar but Bernardo popped up on the left after 12 minutes to score the opening goal, with a little help from a deflection, from a defender and from the crossbar... but they all count! Alberto played in the middle of midfield; he kept the big n.21 under control and he directed Ambrit's attack into all available channels with a shrewd eye. Ale supported Zach up front; he wasn't shooting as well as usual but he kept the defenders busy nonetheless, as indeed did Zach. In the second half, Alberto set up Zach for the second goal. Mattia came in and played some good combinations down the left. Simplicitas switched their goalkeeper and were suddenly more dangerous, with the ex-goalkeeper, n.23, easily their best player. But Jonah went to mark him and shut him out completely! 

MedCup Training Matches

 On Wednesday April 27 all the teams participating to the Mediterranean Cup will play a friendly/practice match:

Match #1: MORNING BREAK Girls: MedCup team vs Girls Selection

Match #2: LUNCH BREAK Boys: Ambrit A vs Ambrit B

Selected Girls for Match #1:

Sara (C), Irene, Clara, Martina, Ella, Ginevra, Abby, Bianca P, Sofia P...

ACLI League - Play-offs, Round 1: Ambrit 15-1 Santa Caterina

 As the league moves into a play-off series with games of direct elimination, Ambrit started the game with purpose and cantered to an easy win. This sets up a quarter-final clash versus the winners of Semplicitas - Mentana, a game that is due to be played in the week beginning Saturday April 23rd.

Today's goals were scored by Ale (3), Alberto (2), Mattia (1), Zach (1), Bernardo (1), Giorgio (3), Jonah (1), Vittorio (1), Emilio (2)

Solid at the back; dangerous coming forward

ACLI League: Ambrit 10-2 Nettuno

 A team that is playing well can hum like a finely-tuned engine and today, at times, the Ambrit motor was humming. From Theo, a solid and reassuring presence in goal, through Alberto, who dictated the pace and tempo of the match in midfield, up to a superlative Zach in attack who combined a subtle touch with a forceful presence, the team played with confidence and conviction.

Even an early goal from the visitors did nothing to dent the team's approach and it wasn't long before Zach had equalised with a deceptive shot off the outside of his right boot. Ambrit then went 2-1 down as the defence continued to settle into the match but this time it was Mattia who finished off a Zach assist. Now Zach hit the post, Alberto scored twice and Ale, always able to find space between the midfield and attack, added a fifth before half time.

Ambrit owned the second half. Bernardo and Giorgio cleaned up everything at the back and the rest of the team pressed relentlessly. Pedro scored immediately after the break; Ale slid home a free kick to make it 7-2; Alberto completed his hat-trick after a lovely passing move involving Emilio and Zach. Emilio capped a wonderful performance of careful, considered and determined football with the ninth goal, running on to a long pass from Giorgio and putting the ball past the onrushing goalkeeper. Pedro rounded off the scoreline to make it 10-2, to the great satisfaction of a beaming captain Santiago on the sidelines.

Brazil 0-0 Argentina

 An intense but ultimately sterile match with much effort, few chances but no goals. Pedro was closest, with shots pinging off the crossbar, whizzing wide and saved by the keeper.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Nicholas 5, Victor 4, Michael 2, Jonah 2, Pedro 2, Tiago 2, Louis 2, Ryan 2, Vincent 2, Zach 2, Marco 1, Bernardo 1, Adam 1

Australia 3-1 Russia

 Un'Australia sontuosa, per la prima volta schierata nella formazione tipo, schianta una Russia poco incisiva e si rilancia nella corsa verso la finale, già "prenotata" dal Messico.

La partita è a senso unico, o quasi, con Isabel e Athena a supporto di Alice unica punta, e l'efficace difesa di Abby a bloccare ogni possibile avanzata russa. Sul fronte opposto buona prova della coppia Maya-Sofia, con le chance di attacco affidate quasi esclusivamente al vigore di Carolina e a qualche conclusione dalla distanza di Rose.

L'Australia si porta in vantaggio con una bella rimessa laterale di Isabel che lancia al tiro Alice, brava a liberarsi. È sempre il capitano Ambrit a ripetersi qualche minuto dopo con un tiro diagonale che bacia il palo ed entra in rete. La Russia prova una reazione, e accorcia su azione insistita di Rose, che costringe all'errore il portiere.

A spegnere definitivamente le ambizioni russe arriva il rigore, confermato dalla coppia di VAR Santiago e Pedro, assegnato dall'arbitro per tocco di mano in area di rigore. Sul dischetto va Alice e non sbaglia: tripletta e tre punti assicurati. Le ultime sfide saranno decisive, benché l'Australia abbia una differenza reti piuttosto penalizzante.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Alice 4, Isabel 4, Abby 3, Sofia F 3, Atena 2, Aali 2, Maya 2, Carolina 2.

Red Card: Diego I, Daniel. (missing their next match)

Netherlands 5-1 Germany

 The grey skies were offset by the lively music at Ambrit Stadium today as Germany suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of the Dutch Masters.

The Netherlands began well; in the first minutes, Mattia was forced into a dangerous header that was nearly an own-goal; Anto shot over; then a nice passing move from Lorenzo to Francesco to Vittorio saw Holland go 1-0 up. Two minutes later, Francesco supplied another assist and Lorenzo put them 2-0 up. Lorenzo then went on a good run down the left but shot over. Germany's only decent attempt came when Remy passed to Daniele but Giovanni made a great save from the shot.

Lorenzo scored a third immediately after half time. Ale came on and pulled one goal back when Daniele passed to Mattia and his cross found Ale in the middle. But the Netherlands closed out the game with a well-taken goal from Francesco and the last of Lorenzo's hat-trick goals.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Francesco 6, Lorenzo 5, Remy 4, Vittorio 2, Aron 2, Giovanni 2, Adrian 1, Ruben 1, Antonio 1, Ben 1, Daniele B 1, Ale 1, Mattia 1

ACLI league: Ambrit 10-2 Forte Bravetta

 It was a pleasant day at the Ambrit fortress. A relaxing 10-2 win breaks the three-game losing streak, raising morale, with hopes of reclaiming our first place spot. Down to nine men, Ambrit would need to step up and deliver superior performances to make up for the empty bench. Ambrit cruised to 1-0 with an easy tap-in by Mattia, soon doubled up by a nicely placed shot by Alberto. Two early goals in and the Ambrit roster seemed more motivated than ever. Giorgio, Albi (twice more), Santiago, Bernardo, Pedro, Zach, and Theodor added to the score-sheet, none but Jonah missing out. Forte Bravetta never gave up though, with them slotting in two compensation goals.

On top of his game today

.

Germany 1 - 2 Brazil

In a tense game at Ambrit Stadium today, Santiago tipped the balance with a beautifully-struck shot from the right wing that flew past the goalkeeper.

It was Germany who had taken the lead though when Daniele skipped past two defenders to score. Mattia was always dangerous too; fast and brave but his shooting let him down. Ale was in and out of the game but always dangerous when in possession: his first shot struck the post and he made a good dribbling run down the centre but was caught by Santiago just as he was winding up for a shot. Then, in the dying moments of the first period, Brazil equalised when Marco's shot was saved by Adrian but the rebound fell to Louis.

Period 2 was quiet. Shots from Marco at one end and Ale at the other and one outstanding save by Adrian.

In period 3, Mattia was at it again: making chances but not finishing. Brazil claimed to have taken the lead when Santiago's throw was touched by Theo on its way into the goal, but the VAR replays showed that the ball had already crossed the line. But there was no arguing about Santiago's winning goal.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Ale 4, Daniele B 4, Santiago 4, Theo 3, Louis 2, Adrian 2, Marco 2, Daniel 2, Mattia 2, Adam 1, Jonah 1, Harshjot 1

YELLOW: Louis & Marco

RECUPERO!!!! Tomorrow (Wed 23 March): BRAZIL - GERMANY

Belgium 1-0 Spain

 After his recent heroics, the absence of Seb from Spain's line-up was a demoralising blow and, with Daniele P out of action too, Maya was drafted in to bolster the defence. Belgium too were short-handed and ace goalkeeper Myla helped out. Early on Gianmarco made a good run on the right, played a great ball across the area but Emilio shot wide. The vocal crowd was roaring for a penalty a while later but the referee waved away all appeals. As Belgium increased the frequency of their attacks, Matteo was a rock in defence, using head, foot, chest to clear everything: he managed some good runs and some good passes too. 

In the second half, shots from Adriano and Emilio were wide. Belgium put some good moves together; one move involved Alberto to Bertie to Alberto to Carl but the final shot was high. A goal eventually came. Giorgio fired a rocket, Adriano headed it bravely and the ball fell to Bertie who buried the shot.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Matteo 5, Trym 2, Maya 2, Leo 2 Alberto 2, Adriano 2, Ralf 2,  Carlo 2, Cameron 1, Oliver 1, Bertie 1, Emilio 1, Gianmarco 1,  Hugo 1, Giorgio 1,  Tommaso 1 Myla 1

Bolivia 1-1 Mexico

A packed Ambrit stadium was treated to a hard fought and close game between Bolivia and Mexico. The Bolivians had to face the American derby without their captain, who was ably substituted at the last second by Adriana,  they were also handicapped at the start of the game as Bianca, one of the pillars of their defence was not able to start the game. The Mexicans who arrived in full strength seemed ready to take the match by storm but they were put on the back foot as the combination of Camila and Aurora dominated the middle of the pitch for Bolivia , they fought hard for the ball and their passing and movement made it very difficult for the Mexicans to get a foot in the game. However, solid defending from Freydis, Clara and Ella along with the steady reassurance of Myla in goal meant that for all their pressure, La Verde could not break the deadlock.

The second period started with a resurgence from the Central Americans, they pushed forward with good interplay between Emma and Clara with Sara making constant dangerous runs behind the defence. In the end, this pressure paid off when Sara in a burst of dazzling solo skill was able to cut through the defence and put the ball past Olivia to put Mexico 1 up.

Their lead was not to last though, the response from Bolivia was immediate and sustained. Buoyed by the return of Bianca at the back, Camila and Vittoria were able to once again push forward and in the end Aurora put an excellent shot past Myla to level the game. The final period of the game was a hard fought struggle for supremacy with neither side able to gain ascendancy and in the end the match finished 1-1.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Sara 5, Camila 4, Aurora 4, Vittoria 3, Emma 3, Myla 2, Clara 1, Bianca 1, Lavinia 1

Brazil 0-0 Netherlands

 With their expensive acquisition from the January transfer window restricted to the sidelines because of a recent red card, Brazil were clearly set up in defensive mode today and will be delighted with a valuable point. The Dutch players looked a little rusty at the start; twice Lorenzo was caught on the back foot when passes from Vittorio and Ben looked to set him up for a shot. He did get two shots away in the first period but neither troubled Daniel unduly.

The best chance of the second period fell to Vittorio early on at the far post, but his shot was timid and saved by Louis. Now Marco's running and effort for the Brazilian midfield began to pay off. He kept the Dutch defence occupied and shot over the bar once, and then wide.

Antonio added some spark to the Dutch team in period 3 and, together with Vittorio created some good chances, but no goals. One good chance fell to Vittorio but Alex made a great block.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Louis 4, Marco 3, Michael 3, Vittorio 3, Nicholas 2, Bernardo 2, Giovanni 2, Jonah, Lorenzo, Antonio 2, Daniel 2, Ben, Alex, Sam

ANSPI league (200-2010): Ambrit 2-2 Sam89

 Ambrit picked up another hard-earned point after a closely-fought encounter at Ambrit Stadium today against an opposing team that improved as the game went on. All in all, a fair result.

In the first period, Ambrit's organisation and their fierce tackling in midfield - led by an in-form Aurora - saw them push their opponents back for most of the period and the reward came when Ben poked a shot home from 20 meters out with a well-aimed strike into the bottom corner.

A tiger in midfield today!

In the second period, Sam89 poured forward, but Trym and Giulio played very well in defense today and kept them out; Ambrit went in for the second break still leading 1-0.

In period 3, Diego continued to harass the Sam defence. Twice he came close - once with a header, then with a shot - before he finally did add a second goal for Ambrit with a fantastic header past a helpless goalkeeper. But now Sam89 decided it was 'all-or-nothing' and they came forward with abandon. They scored first with a well-disguised shot from outside the area that sent Vittorio the wrong way, and then they equalised when hesitancy in the Ambrit defence opened the door. 

TEAM: Vittorio, Trym, Giulio, Ben, Sara, Aurora, Ruben, Oliver, Diego, Gabriele.

ACLI league (2007/2008): Ambrit 4-4 Miracoli

 Miracoli indeed! The biggest miracle today was how the visitors escaped with a point after a game dominated by Ambrit, who managed to return today to something like their best form.

After dominating the early exchanges, with Pedro shooting wide off an Ale assist and Zach unable to finish a move involving Pedro and Ale in the build-up, Miracoli broke away and scored. The equaliser wasn't long coming though - Ale finishing, after a good pass from Pedro. The game was finely balanced now, but the balance was tipped in the visitors' favour by an Ambrit team that stood off the ball and waited for things to happen rather than taking the game by the scruff of the neck. Two quick goals stunned the Ambrit boys and the atmosphere was tense at half-time.

On target - three goals today!

In the second half, Ambrit's attacking play improved. Santi was now raiding on the left, Emilio on the right and it was Santi's pass that set up Pedro for the next goal: 2-3. Ambrit now had the momentum and should have equalised when the ball was pinging around in a crazy goal-mouth scramble. Ambrit then equalised and went ahead in the space of two minutes, both goals from Ale. He forced one over the line with his head and banged the other in with a left-foot drive. Suddenly the three points were within our grasp but, with just one minute to play, Miracoli ha fatto il miracolo. From a corner on the right, the ball was cleared to the edge of the penalty area and the Miracoli captain scored with an incredibe bicycle kick from the edge of the area. Niente da fare.

Argentina 2-2 Spain

 A packed Ambrit Stadium was treated to the best match of the tournament so far as Spain came from behind to grab a well deserved point from a stunned Argentina.

The first action of the game said a lot about what would follow: Pedro, who played very well today, found space for a shot but Seb made a fine save... the first of many saves from Seb, who left the arena to thunderous applause after an paralleled display of goalkeeping prowess. However, he was beaten shortly afterwards when Dylan threaded a precise pass to Pedro who found the right angle this time. Shortly afterwards, it was those two again... another Pedro shot, another fantastic save from Seb. And then Argentina went 2-0 up. Pedro was involved again, this time slipping an assist to Adam who shot immediately and gave Seb no chance.

In the second period, nothing much changed. Argentina continued to dominate but Seb kept Spain in the game. Two more show-stopping interventions - one from Adam at the start of period 2, another from Zach at the end.

Spain were still trailing 0-2 as period 3 began, but the turning point was supplied by Cameron. He took possession in midfield and, surrounded by three defenders, managed to find Gianmarco on the right with a perfect pass. Gianmarco controlled, shot, scored! Game on!! Gianmarco then had another chance soon after as Argentina struggled to recover their momentum, but Lucas saved well. Now Spain were in control and Daniele P was making a difference in midfield. And what a difference! Receiving the ball just in from the half-way line, he spotted Lucas out of position and launched a well-judged lob over his head and into the back of the net. 2-2!

Argentina woke up again and attacked desperately for the last minutes, but Seb made another pair of saves and Spain celebrated a fine comeback as Argentina wondered where it had all gone wrong.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Seb 8, Pedro 4, Dylan 3, Hugo 3, Emilio 2, Cameron 2, Daniele P 2, Gianmarco 1, Adam 1, Zach 1, Ralf 1

Mexico 1-0 Australia

 Il Messico 🇲🇽  continua la sua cavalcata trionfale verso la finale, con una vittoria di misura sull'Australia  🇦🇺 combattiva ma poco pericolosa e rimane in testa a punteggio pieno. Il mix di esperienza (Emma), tecnica (Sara) entusiasmo (Clara/Ella) e solidità difensiva (Myla) ha reso imbattibile finora questa squadra, che con l'innesto di Freydis sembra davvero imperforabile.

L'Australia, con l'infortunata Athena ben sostituita da Adriana, ha giocato a sprazzi, senza un'organizzazione precisa e un punto di riferimento in attacco. In porta Martina ha salvato il salvabile, arrendendosi solo al tiro imparabile di Sara verso la fine del primo tempo.

Ancora tutta da giocare la corsa al secondo posto, anche se - con questa sconfitta - per l'Australia si fa veramente molto dura...

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Sara 3, Emma 2, Martina 2, Isabel 2, Adriana 1, Clara 2, Ella K 2, Abby 1.

Germany 6-1 Italy

 Una sconfitta dura, di quelle che abbatte il morale, per l'Italia, ancora a secco di punti, per merito di un'ottima Germania, molto tecnica, veloce e ben organizzata. 

Eppure qualcosa si può dire sulle ragazze che, a parte l'eccezionale prova di Myla tra i pali e di Maya in difesa, hanno dato la sensazione di non saper essere aggressive, di perdere facilmente la posizione e di non averci provato davvero fino in fondo. Coraggio! Se non ci credete voi??!!!

Tra i Tedeschi ottime le prestazioni di tanti, da Theo in difesa a Daniele in attacco, da Alessandro a Mattia in centrocampo: difficile opporsi alla squadra favorita per la vittoria finale, al gioco veloce con palla a terra. Bravi! Queste partite dovrebbero insegnarvi che per giocare bene a calcio - sport DI SQUADRA - serve passare spesso e non tenere troppo il pallone.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Myla 4, Maya 3, Mattia 3, Theo 3, Daniele B 3, Ale 3, Alice 1.

Monteverde 4-2 Ambrit

Some games are won, some games are lost and some games - like this one - are just thrown away. Having survived some early pressure, Ambrit took hold of the game and Bernardo shot just over the bar. Mattia then hit the post with a good header off a Giorgio corner and Ambrit took the lead when another corner from Giorgio found its way into the back of the net. A touch of luck, but a deserved lead. Monteverde almost equalised immediately but Santiago made a great save... but then the Monteverde equaliser came almost immediately. Before half time though, a long ball was cleverly controlled by Zach, who drew two defenders and set Mattia up for an accurate strike into the corner: 2-1 at half-time.

Gave the opposition defence no peace
in the first half

The second half was another story. Monteverde took over and almost equalised but Giorgio made a miraculous clearance off the line (Giorgio had another great game today). Bernardo cleared another one off the line: Monteverde were getting closer and closer! They did equalise when a lack of communication in the Ambrit defence allowed the ball through to the striker. He finished clinically and then another mistake in defence - a ball that could have been cleared three times but was allowed to bounce around the penalty area - put the home side 3-2 ahead. Ambrit's desperate attempts to find an equaliser left them open to the counter attack, and the final goal sealed a black period for Ambrit, taking just one point from a possible 9.

And a HUGE thank you to all the supporters who turned up today!

TEAM: Santiago, Carlo, Theo, Giorgio, Bernardo, Emilio, Mattia, Zach, Bertie, Jonah

Argentina 2-0 Belgium

Zach's throw-in was the key to Argentina's victory today. In the first period, he found Dylan who guided the ball in with a cheeky back-heel to make it 1-0 and then he found Pedro's head to make it 2-0. For Belgium, Giorgio fired in some good shots but Lucas was equal to everything, even if some sections of the crowd insisted that the ball had crossed the line on one occasion as Lucas swept it out. Leo's wild clearance awarded a penalty to Argentina but Ben pulled the kick wide.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Zach 4, Giorgio 3, Dylan 3, Rocco 2, Cosimo 2, Leo 2, Pedro 2, Lucas 2, Ben 1, Tiago 1, Diego 1, Vincent 1, Gabriele 1, Carlo 1, Bertie 1, Adam 1

Mexico 4-0 Australia

 L'Australia 🇦🇺  sbaglia completamente formazione e approccio alla gara, regalando al Messico 🇲🇽 un vantaggio iniziale che diventa poi irrecuperabile. Brava la formazione capitanata da Myla a sfruttare le occasioni e a non perdere compattezza, puntando forte su una Sara incontenibile, ormai lanciata in cima a tutte le classifiche, e alla velocità di Emma e Clara.

La squadra di Athena ha via via perso brillantezza e non ha più creduto nella rimonta, senza lo spirito combattivo di Isabel - infortunata - e con poca organizzazione in campo. Non tutto è perduto per l'Australia, mentre il Messico viaggia fortissimo verso la finale.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Sara 6, Emma 3, Alice 2, Athena 2, Myla 2, Abby 2, Martina 1, Clara 1.

Borgo Palidoro 3-1 Ambrit

 The struggle for first place continues with Palidoro winning this return match after Ambrit had triumphed earlier in the year by 4-3. Ambrit's recent results are now coming back to haunt them. After a 100% record before Christmas, two defeats and a draw since then means that the title race is wide open.

Last night's match was a tough one indeed, on a very difficult pitch. Not only for the loose gravel surface, but also for the goals that were smaller than usual and a pitch that was narrow. Still, we did have some early chances and, had Santiago's shot after just 3' gone in rather than bouncing back from the bar, things might have been different. Instead, Palidoro began to gain ground and push us back further and further. Theo was forced into a series of saves and then Palidoro scored from a good header off a corner on the left. Ambrit were now struggling, playing on the break, but Vittorio did get a good shot in from distance that shaved the post. Just before half-time, Palidoro won possession close to goal and hammered home a second.

Snuffed out the opposition's main threat

Things looked bleak, but Ambrit showed a very good reaction in the second half. Giorgio scored a fantastic goal, cutting in from the left and unleashing an unstoppable shot to make it 2-1. Jonah came on and neutralised Palidoro's best player; Mattia and Emilio added some lucidity and some better passing to Ambrit's attacking moves. But the clock was running down and, apart from a couple of half-chances, Ambrit's efforts were fruitless. Palidoro added a late third goal.

Argentina 2 - 0 Italy

 Ancora una prestazione generosa per le azzurre, ancora una sconfitta.

Le ragazze hanno avuto un ottimo atteggiamento in campo, almeno fino al secondo gol, ma hanno faticato a trovare la posizione in campo e non sono riuscite a sfruttare le opportunità (poche) concesse dai sudamericani. L’Argentina da parte sua ha offerto una prestazione solida, con le idee chiare e con qualche vezzo di troppo. Sono bastati due tiri da fuori, uno di Adam e l'altro di Zach, per sistemare il punteggio finale e assicurarsi i tre punti.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS:

Camila 5, Sara 5, Maya 4, Dylan 3, Zac 3, Adam 2, Pedro 1, Bianca 1, Carolina 1, Myla 1.

Ambrit 4-4 Vigna

 At a crucial point in the season, is the Ambrit machine beginning to creak? Two more points dropped and for long periods tonight, the signs weren't good: careless passing, not enough running and, worst of all, half-hearted tackling. With Wednesday's important head-to-head match in Palidoro only 48 hours away, things need to change rapidly!

Giorgio was lively at the start and hit the bar with an early shot. Pedro shot wide after some good combinations with Mattia on the left and Giorgio put Ambrit ahead from a free-kick aftre 15'. But Vigna Pia equalised from a similar situation minutes later and the sides went in 1-1 at the break. Santiago played very well in goal and came out to sweep away dangerous attacks more than once.

Not everyone was below par tonight

In the second half, Mattia scored from a Santiago assist and then another Mattia shot brought a third goal when it deflected in off the defender. Vigna Pia didn't give up and they deservedly made it 3-2, but Emilio restored Ambrit's two-goal cushion when he popped up unmarked in the box to tip the ball home. But, despite some excellent saves from Theo, Ambrit couldn't hang on and Vigna Pia scored twice in the last minutes.

 

ANSPI league (2009-10): Ambrit 2-4 CRIS

With many families away for the break, Ambrit still managed to cobble together a team and what a performance they gave! Right from the start, the team kept its shape and, though forced to defend for long periods, they always remained dangerous in attack where Sara was already ready, always willing and always doing something useful for the team. Her pressure on the defence paid off after 8', forcing the visitors back and forcing an own-goal to put Ambrit 1-0 up. CRIS came back into attack immediately. Francesco made a good diving save from a shot by the No 10 but the visitors scored from a cross that was miskicked by a defender and finished off by the No. 11. CRIS then went ahead, scoring from a free kick that fell to an attacker on the near post. But there was still time for more action before the break. Ambrit won a corner and Emma curled it directly in to make it 2-2.

The second period was Ambrit's best. Aali was fantastic; taking great throw-ins, tackling anything that moved and taking no prisoners! With Emma, Trym and Vittorio beside her, they swept away all attacks and Ben patrolled the midfield, offering another layer of protection but filtering the ball through to Sara and Aurora too.

Period 3 saw CRIS taking the lead from another free-kick and then extending the lead with a harsh penalty. Francesco came out and increased the Ambrit threat going forward; Vittorio took over in goal and made two good saves.

TEAM: Francesco; Trym, Vittorio C, Emma, Aali, Aurora, Ben, Sara

Spain 1-2 Germany

 Spain were reeling in the first period as Ale and Daniele combined over and again to open them up. The decisive move came when Ale released Daniele on the left and, after using his blistering pace to beat three players, he crossed to the centre as Ale arrived to finish off the move.

In the second period, Spain found a solution and maintained a good shape, with Ralf and Trym prominent in defence. Seb was still given lots to do in goal - and did it very well - while Cameron and Emilio put some good moves together. But the Germans went two goals ahead, this time Daniele putting the finishing touch.

In the final period, Cameron put Emilio in and the ex-Arsenal ace managed to sort out his feet and put it past Theo. Game on! Spain threw everything into attack, defended desperately (yellow card for Trym, more great saves from Seb) but the Germans hung on for a win.

BEST PLAYER POINTS: Daniele B 9, Seb 5, Ale 4, Kevin 3, Adam O 3, Cameron 2, Ralf 1, Emilio 1

Russia 3-0 Bolivia

 Russia 🇷🇺 e Bolivia 🇧🇴  hanno giocato un bel match, benché il risultato sia stato forse più pesante di quanto visto in campo. La Russia ha vinto meritatamente, per aver espresso un gioco più corale e compatto, mentre la Bolivia si è affidata alle folate offensive di Camila e Aurora, lasciando indietro il resto della squadra. La prima rete russa è stata siglata da Irene, abile a sfruttare una respinta corta della difesa sudamericana. Immediata la reazione della Bolivia, che con Aurora colpisce un palo clamoroso a portiere battuto. La reazione tuttavia viene smorzata immediatamente dal raddoppio di Rose, con un tiro da lontano - non irresistibile - che il portiere non trattiene. La Bolivia ci prova ancora, soprattutto con Camila, oggi molto ispirata, ma è Rose, su calcio d'angolo di Carolina, a trafiggere ancora una volta la difesa boliviana con un tiro al volo e la doppietta personale.

Complessivamente bene tutta la Russia, con Aali sempre più sicura tra i pali, con Maya brava in difesa e anche a supporto del centrocampo, con la fisicità di Irene, Sofia e Carolina. Nella Bolivia si sono distinte Camila, Vittoria e la sorpresa Bianca in porta, che ha ben figurato nonostante il ruolo improvvisato.

PLAYER OF THE MATCH POINTS: Camila 4, Rose 3, Maya 3, Aali 2, Irene 2, Vittoria 2, Aurora 2, Carolina 2, Sofia F 1, Bianca P 1.

ACLI league (2007/08): Mentana 1-4 Ambrit

 Ambrit traveled to Mentana today for a midweek fixture and they made the journey worthwhile by taking home all three points. Ale and Pedro had early shots but, despite the Ambrit dominance, it was the home side who went ahead when their no. 9 rose unchallenged to head home a corner. But the league leaders didn't panic. Ale picked up the ball in midfield, got past three defenders, was fouled twice but still managed to get a good shot away. The ball beat the goalkeeper but came back off the post. Mattia was first to the rebound and swept it home for the equaliser. Mattia had a great game today, winning every ball on the right flank and making the defenders' lives a misery with good passing and good running.

On Form Today!

Ambrit stayed focused after the break. Jonah almost scored with a well-struck shot but it was Ale who put i rossoblu ahead with another well-placed strike that gave the goalkeeper no chance. Ale and Emilio were combining well now and from one of Ale's passes, Emilio crossed  to Bertie and his touch set up Alberto for the third goal. The game opened up now, spaces everywhere. Mentana attacked, tempted Santiago out of position but Giorgio was there to clear the shot off the line. Bernardo came close with a header, Alberto hit the post and Vittorio made it 4-1 when he ran on to Zach's long throw.