Prague Day 1
Cardiff were handed a tough tie for their opening game of the European Trophy tournament. Not only are Bohemians Prague the hosts but the Czech Republic were a Division A nation last year. Many made them the pre-tournament favourites, including the pundits on the Czech equivalent of Sky Sports, which was broadcasting the game live.
However, after a typically rousing pre-match pep talk from Ian Davies, Cardiff made the brighter opening, creating some good chances, until after eighteen minutes one was converted by David Samuels, Cardiff had identified penalty corners as a Bohemians strength having watch them train, and the host soon proved this by drawing level and then taking the lead on the stroke of half time - both goals from corners.
Cardiff started the second half a men short, due to a yellow card, but they immediately had their most fruitful period. Phil Lowe turned the Czech defence before firing home with the reverse stick and then Tim Jones dived score from a rebound from his own shot to take the lead. Midway through the half Phil Lowe deflected home Tim Jones's cross to extend the lead. Although Steven Gardiner had a couple of sharp saves to make, Cardiff looked comfortable for the rest of the game, with Chris Shaw particularly impressive in defence. Final Score 4-2.
The next game is against the Swiss side, the other day one winners from Group B.
Here's a video of the goals:
Friday, 1 June 2007