SLIEMA HOTSTICKS 0 YOUNG STARS 3

Starting Formation: Farrugia Elton Lee, Imbroll Andrei, Scicluna Keith, Vassallo Elton, Bugeja Michael, Portelli Steve, Grima Shaun, George Ryan, Plaehn Silas, Dalli Ryan, Plaehn Lukas.

Substitutes who Played: Cacopardo Dario, Schembri Stefano, Gauci Leanne.

With the Team: Borg Karl, Borg Emile.

Umpires: Tony Tabone & Paul Brincat

Disciplinary Measures: Nil

Hotsticks made a move in the wrong direction on Sunday with very little to save from a match which could and should have had a different outcome. The team failed to function collectively, there was hardly any logic and tactical discipline in the movements. Players were individuals rather than team players and those with most experience disappointed more than the rest. The final score was an obvious result to a low profile performance.

Contrary to what they usually do, Young Stars opted for a more cautious approach. In the first half they rarely ventured forward, however, from their first penalty corner they opened the score. Hotsticks’ reaction was immediate but even though they gained territorial possession their play into the Dee and at goal was not fruitful.

During the second half Young Stars were still the team with the better ideas and it came as no surprise when in the space of a few minutes they added another two goals owing to Hotsticks’ lost possession and unmarked attackers receiving the ball. Hotsticks had numerous penalty corners but their actions were too slow, erroneous, predictable and lacked the necessary determination which is required to win games.

Hotsticks have almost a month to fix things and start the second round on a different note. The Sliema side will face White Hart in a match that will determine last place.