Recap

The first game of the re-branded NIKE Series Futsal Victoria saw a potentially exciting clash on the cards as newly promoted Ashburton took on a new look and fresh faced Fitzroy side. Fitzroy had undergone somewhat of a exodus over the off season, losing a handful of players and finding a new coach in passionate Frenchman Sebastien Bechaud. After beating Metropolitan in a promotion playoff, Ashburton were keen to impress against another V-League side as they opened their campaign. In the early stages of the game Ashburton looked right at home on the Series Futsal stage, as they created the majority of the chances as a the new Fitzroy side struggled to create clear cut chances. Asburton’s pressure soon paid off as a cross from a corner was deflected in off Jackson Shaw for an own goal. Fitzroy grew more into the game after going behind, but could not break Ashburton down as they held out till half time, keeping the score to 1-0.

The second period saw Fitzroy dominate possession as they looked to equalise, however Ashburton always looked dangerous on the counter. Multiple chances were being created at both ends, however, poor finishing coupled with excellent keeping from both sides shot stoppers meant that both sides were kept at bay. In particular Omid Azami, AShburton’s stalwart between the sticks, was pulling out some fine saves to deny Fitzroy. Eventually, however, Fitzroy broke through and equalised, as new signing Igor Boroni squared it for Jackson Shaw to tap home from close range. In the final few minutes both teams went close to winning in, with the woodwork having a big hand in keeping the scores level. An enthralling encounter with chances a plenty but the final score would remain on goal a piece as the opening game of the 2016 Series Futsal season started in intense fashion.

Omid Azami (Ashburton FC)