Dateline 21st July 2019

 FT Trat FC 2 NRFC 1 

Attendance; 3959

The Swatcats headed south for this weekend’s clash with the White Elephants, they started with the “big 4” - a bold selection for an away game.

In front of raucous away support, and on a heavy pitch, the visitors opened brightly but a fine solo goal from Doumbouya put the hosts ahead in the 15^th minute. Seconds later he nodded in a second but as replays proved he was ruled erroneously offside.

As the Swatcats struggled in midfield a weak effort from Hartmann and a cross shot from Amadou was all they could muster as the half progressed.

The hosts had another goal ruled offside in the 28^th minute as they continued to savage the Swatcat defence, then Hartmann had a point-blank header knocked over by the host’s keeper.

As the half drew to a close Pralong went close with a free kick and minutes later, the Swatcats were awarded a penalty when Henri was hacked down inside the box. Henri slotted the penalty kick home to send the visitors in at half time, rather fortunately, on even terms.

The second half opened with Hartmann replaced by Akekanat in order to bolster the visitor’s defence - I predict a tough 45 minutes ahead!! Trat continued to look very dangerous up front with the Swatcats unable to gain any real traction in midfield.

The hosts were now exerting almost continuous pressure with Jurosinmi testing keeper Cunningham with a low drive and inevitably Trat went ahead when Bireme blasted into the net in the 75^th minute.

Late drama as Doumbouya spurned a great chance to make it three when he missed from 6 yards with only the keeper to beat, he then had the rebound from the keeper kicked off the line.

A sloppy first half defensive display and unfortunately, the Swatcats were outplayed for most of the game by a superior Trat outfit.

Coach Joksic cannot afford to play Henri, Hartmann, Assumpcao and Amadou, it leaves the side unbalanced and understrength in midfield. Bold coaching undoubtedly, but our slide down the table calls for a more defensive approach - I fear dark days ahead - what a disappointment.

Match Day 19 Stats