18/09/2004
Tyneside Amateur League Division 2

IJLW Brazil
Wilkinson, Davison, Churchley, Walker, Haigh, Paterson, Creighton, McCartney, Katirai, Thompson.

Brazil’s almost full strength squad of 15 was depleted to 10 players in just a couple of hours on the morning of the match, leaving their confident manager a little less sure of his team’s chances. Gateshead lived up to expectations in that they were a very poor side. The only times they looked threatening were when Brazil had committed men forward to support Chris Thompson so Gateshead could considerably outnumber Brazil as they attacked.

The best chances of the first half all fell to Brazil, although none of them were clear opportunities. Chris McCartney, Bryan Walker, Matthew Creighton and Ewan Paterson all had decent efforts but it was the home side that went in ahead at the break. Their goal coming on 40 minutes with the scorer in an offside position as the ball was played through to him.

In the second half, Brazil battled well as they played into the strong wind. They allowed Gateshead to dominate the possession and then tried to make quick counter attacks. Even with their extra man and Brazil’s weary legs, the hosts couldn’t get close to extending their lead and Brazil were eventually rewarded for their perseverance. McCartney capped his debut with a well taken goal following a superb break and one-two with Thompson.

Brazil could’ve taken the lead as they pressed forward but Paterson hit the post with a well struck drive from the right shortly before McCartney headed Paterson’s cross just wide. Brazil’s fullbacks, Shaun Haigh and Gary Davison remained calm even when trying mark two men, as Gateshead sought a late winner. They were denied by a couple of timely challenges by Dave Churchley and three great saves from Lee Wilkinson, which contributed to him being named man of the match. Special mention must also go to James Katirai who was forced to play out of position on the left wing but still managed to play some lovely passes and win some important free kicks. It is hoped that this hard-earned point will serve as the springboard to kickstart Brazil’s season. Against better opposition, however, it is almost certain that Brazil will need at least eleven men to be able to compete.