University of East London’s futsal seconds opened their season with a 7-4 away victory over Anglia Ruskin University firsts on Sunday, as a blend of experience and fresh faces gelled to deliver a dominant display.
Coach Trevor Tamatave opted for a strong squad, selecting mainly first team players with UEL futsal experience behind them as well as introducing some promising new talent in Amine Mimoune and Yacine Rabia. On top of this, Harman Sandhu of Genesis Futsal Club captained the side on his debut.
The Blues dominated from the first whistle, with Bruno Cesar scoring twice in quick succession as he troubled ARU down their left side on the back of some early pressure. On the opposite side, Mimoune silkily grew into the game, looking incredibly composed in tight spaces and skillfully taking two goals either side of an Anglia Ruskin free kick to make things 4-1 by half time.
Danger
UEL’s high first half tempo, spearheaded by Rabia, meant Anglia Ruskin were limited to long balls in order to create their chances, however Sandhu’s anticipation in these situations meant that they struggled to find themselves in positions of any real danger.
The second half saw ARU threaten far more effectively, and UEL appeared to be taken aback by the home side’s rejuvenated start. A drop in the Blues’ tempo meant that Anglia Ruskin began to create more opportunities from open play as they battled to claw their way back into the tie.
Tenacious
Sandhu’s high-level experience was priceless for the visitors in the second half though, as he combined his understanding of the game with a tenacious energy that scuppered the hosts’ chances of getting something out of the match.
As well as snuffing out countless chances, he also picked up a second half hat-trick to complete the days’ scoring and secure all three points for UEL.
The seconds will now turn their attentions to their next fixture, at home to London School of Economics firsts, whilst UEL’s first side will be looking to start their season in a similar fashion against Queen Mary University firsts next week.
Man of the Match: Amine Mimoune – The debutant’s fearlessness and confidence on the ball down the left was one of the standout features of the match. His stylish flair and creativity made him a constant threat.
