The 2pm kick off meant that heat would play a factor and thus the league would allow rolling subs. The game started at en even pace and the Barbarians contained the threat of the Russians right sided attacks very well. Furthermore it was pleasure to see this new look team passing the ball out of the back into midfield and then look to find Kevin Plume with Dirk drifting just off him.

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The first half saw some crunching tackles with Nathan in particular mood for putting himself about. Changes were made with 15 left in 1st half with Stewart replacing John in the defense mid position. Henry coming in for Dale and. Will coming off someone else. The 1st half ended with few chances and attempts but withsome very good battles in midfield. Also two excellent saves from Carlos denied the Russian's striker. One of them was the ex- Fatty from the Italians. Still Fat but no longer with Italians.

The second half began with Russians upping their threat down the right hand side and this began with their star player and star players of the league. By this time Giambattista had fitted in nicely in right back in place of Dave Carini and Thomas coming as the holding defensive midfielder whilst Stewart pushed upfront. The changes continued in the second half.

The Russians finally managed to slot home from a nice move down the right wing with a final cross into the box for their clearly offside striker to slot home! New Season same old crap performance from the officials who still do not know the off side rule. Pressure was mounting from the Russians and Barbs needed to get back into the game. We decided to bring Big Kev back into the game for the last 15! This had an immediate effect from Dirk's cross, Kevin headed in nicely. Celebrations on the sideline were cut short when the Offside Flag was spotted! No goal! Damn it!

The Barbarians pushed on once again in the last 5 minutes and some nice football was being played. Another lovely Dirk cross found Kev and this time no mistake from Kev or the linesman a great header to send the Cup match into Penalties! 1:1

The penalties were great spectacle for the supporters with Big Kev blasting high over the bar following his 2 min lecture to the lads on how to take penos! He made up for this right away by promptly booing the next Russia taker into missing. The following penalties were pretty much spot on and gave the keepers no chance. With Dave Carini missing the 7th Peno it was left to the Russians to score and knock Brabarians out of the cup.

The new comers all seem to  get some votes for the Man of The Match but the overall MVP went to Nathan!

All in all a good start and the Barbarians should take heart in the performance from a set of new lads getting to know each other. This Barbarian truly feels that with some discipline and consistancy of players availability-  that this team should be aiming for a top 4/5 spot to qualify and play in the Asia Champions League.

Zidane