Meridian Youth Milan returned to winning ways when Digicel Premier League action continued last Tuesday night at the National Stadium.
Milan opened up an eight point lead after a 2-1 victory over ICE Wales, and a slip up by second place Mackeson Brittons Hill who went down 1-0 to Sportingbet.com Pinelands.
Brittons Hill were provided with the prime opportunity to apply pressure on the table leaders, but in a game which they dominated, they were outdone by a moment of brilliance.
In the 82nd minute central defender Prince “Shaka” Cooke, released one of his trademark thunderbolt free kicks into the “V” from approximately 25 yards, to give his team the sole important goal and three points which took them to 18 points.
Milan created some breathing space for themselves, as they bounced back from their last two successive defeats.
Wales started the game on the better end, for in the fourth minute Dwayne “killa” McClean was saved at point blank range from Adrian Chase, after he was set on a platter compliments a right side cross from Paul “Soup” Lovell.
Wales enjoyed the better opportunities of the first half and it was no surprise when they grabbed the lead in the 20th minute.
A foul just outside the area, resulted in a moment of creativity. A delightful pass from Jabarr Greene into McClean saw the 2008 Player of the Year control and shoot in one motion into the far post, pass the outstretched arm of Chase.
Wales’ style of play was more fluent than their display Sunday when they lost to Brittons Hill. They missed a golden chance to double their lead minutes later, but classy and cool defending from sweeper Romel Burgess blocked Kemar Headley’s shot as he delayed a second too long.
Milan equalised in the 38th minute. A cross from left wing back Ramuel Millar, full of pace and power was met by the head of Jamar Watson, leaving custodian Bentley Springer rooted to the spot.
Into the break on level terms and all to play for in the second half. The second lacked some steam, and Wales displayed obvious fatigue. This allowed Milan to take command of the game, as they spread the ball around the pitch nicely, to the frustration of their opponents who committed needless fouls.
Milan’s victory allows them some breathing space for now, as they sit eight points clear of their closest competitor. (ROG)
