Matara City defeated hosts Blue Star SC 1-0 in a stunning upset to end Blue Star’s two year unbeaten streak at their home base, Vernon Fernando Stadium.
Blue Star started strong, as they normally do when playing at home, dominating in possession with blistering attacks down the left and right wings. During the first 10 minutes they had a total of 4 crosses in to the box but neither forward could connect and produce a goal scoring opportunity.
Completely against the run of play Matara City made their first attack, which took Blue Star unaware. This produced the only goal of the game. That came from an unstoppable and unmarked scissor kick from Moses Ochuko Frank 10 yards from the mouth of the goal.
Soon afterwards Blue Star were back in control of the game and they took the lions share of the best chances. Matara were however determined to hold on to there lead and park their defence in front of goal. Many a times there were 10 players in the box and only one striker playing out wide.
This strategy produce a second clear goal scoring chance when Matara forward Prince Asamoah broke alone after a Blue Star free kick was hoofed forward. Finding him self against defender Blue Star Shivanka Balagamage and keeper Manjula Fernando, he was unable to produce a precise enough strike and was subsequently saved by Fernando.
Half time – Blue Star 0 – 1 Matara City
The second half saw Blue Star once again dominate in possession. Cross after cross was met by direct strikes to the goal, but was either collected by Matara keeper Kelum Dahanayake Yapa or cleared for a corner by the many Matara players defending.
Blue Star threw everything they had to ensure their unbeaten home run was not tarnished. Nigerian centre half Nasiru Opeyemi could be seen time and time again making runs in to the box, to try and header a goal in, whilst also running back to defend.
Blue Star came very close on many occasions, deep into injury time the ball skidded past the right post and keeper Yapa. No striker was able to reach the ball in time even with the help of the crowd spurring their team to get an equaliser.
Matara did everything in their power to ensure their momentous victory, including throwing every defender at the countless attacks with disregard to their safety.
They also were wasting time during injuries and throw-ins., which they picked up two yellow cards for. Once final whistle had blown Matara celebrated like they had won the league.
Full time – Blue Star 0 – 1 Matara City
ThePapare.com Player of the Match – Ochuko Frank
Goal Scorers
Matara City – Ochuko Frank 14’
