20/08/2005
John Hampson Memorial Trophy Group D

IJLW Brazil
Paterson, Mitchell, Churchley, Walker, Haigh, Cuggy, Hinks, Armstrong, Ho, Bull, Smith (Harrison 45).

With five goalkeepers unavailable for various reasons, star midfielder (and shortest member of the squad) Ewan Paterson volunteered to take the gloves. Brazil made a good start and could have taken the lead almost immediately. Paul Smith robbed Cramlington’s centre back but dragged his shot wide as the keeper advanced towards him.

It was the hosts that scored first. Matty Bull, whose form has been superb so far this season, beat the offside trap and placed his shot perfectly into the bottom corner. It wasn’t long though before the First Division side started to dominate. They led 4-1 at the interval. Paterson had been extremely unlucky for one of the goals; having made an excellent reaction save, the rebound was put away.

Brazil were better in the second half and got back into the game early on. Bryan Walker’s long throw was headed away only just outside the box were Bull was waiting. His left footed volley into the top corner is an early contender for goal of the season.

Again Cramlington regained control and made sure of their victory with a couple more goals. Brazil did create more chances but failed to put any away. With time running out, Bull looked set to strike a 30 yard free kick in an attempt to score his first hat-trick for Brazil. He fooled everyone when he played a delightful pass into the box to the unmarked Walker. The big centre back’s first touch was good, a lot better than the second as lashed his shot over the bar.

Mark Harrison’s physical presence troubled the defenders enough in the second half to earn him the match of the match award.