The Real Madrid Game

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So here they were the mighty Real Madrid from Spain. No one could hardly believe it, least of all the players who seemed transfixed by what Real madrid were doing even during the team talk !

The day before had been overcast and pleasant, but now the skies had cleared and it was HOT. This photo shows how cool Real Madrid were and how tough the going was for us. Looks like Casey and Darren could do with a rest.

Despite some stout defending Real Madrid took control with many stunning moves. Here Ben is challenging for the ball. The highlight for me in the first half was an unstoppable 30 yard goal right into the top right hand corner. So fast our keeper hardly moved.

We did have our chances but Real madrid's defence showed their professionalism. When we did get the ball past them, we didn't ! Hatch doesnt normally have it this tough.

We didn't always need 2 at a time to stop their midfield. Barry and Sturge are doubling up here.

Some more good defending by us. 'Granny' is the one defending here. In the background you can see some of the huge training ground of A.C. Reggianna. In all, the ground had 21 pitches of various sizes, a church and a restaurant that catered for all 20 teams.

Real Madrid fought for everything, a tall player on the ground can be quite effective. Mark is robbed of the ball with Mandel looking on.

The ball is put forward by Carl. This photo gives a good example of how tall all the teams were. On seeing the difference, many onlookers were amazed to learn they were the same age.

Clearing the ball for a corner seemed the only way at times. The highlight of the second half was a ball that hit the base of the post and trickled away from the goal, the centre forward pounced, took a defender out of play and backheeled at the same time, straight into the path of an oncoming forward. A terrific goal.

More defence, Casey this time against a winger. Note in the background the T.V. camera. It was interesting to see the Real Madrid players giving T.V. interviews after the match. Not surprising really when you consider both Madrid teams featured in the competition.

A rare attack for S.G.F.C. and good defending again by Real Madrid. We eventually lost the match 5-0 but what an experience for a sunday league team.

After the final whistle Real Madrid were pursuaded to pose with the team for a photo. Look closely, we may well few see of these players again in the future.

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