There is only one United, Leeds
Dale and John were the men on the mic for this episode. They were back from heading to Dublin for the pre-season match with Leeds.
Both were keen to heap praise on Luca Black for the previous episode. It brought to light for many fans the issues going on behind the scenes.
Croker has been a venue well travelled for the two lads. One perhaps with bad memories for Fitzy given Cork’s lack of success there in recent years. Not many soccer stars have been able to play there so it was a privilege. Journalists were slightly bemused by the size of the pitch, but many engaged with the history of the place.
Regarding the game itself, both lads agreed that the first half performance was strong. Bryan Mbeumo showed his decent form by skinning his opponent to slide in Joshua Zirkzee for the opener. The two forwards combined well for that period and created a number of chances. Leeds struck back with their only effort after sloppy play from us.
The pace dropped from us in the second-half and the whites created some decent opportunities. The amount of substitutes coming on, and easing others into game time, appeared to be a major factor in that. Teams are trying to prepare themselves for the season opener.
The game finished a draw and went to a penalty shoot-out. Dermot Mee proved to be the hero with a crucial save before Noussair Mazraoui scored the winner. It gave us the win and the prestigious Doyle Sports Cup. You’ll never sing that!
Dale was able to get into the mix-zone afterwards and spoke with Mazraoui and Mee. Maz was asked regarding the objectives for the season. The players and management have a firm ambition to claim silverware of some description. Mee was asked regarding his Irish heritage. It was clear that playing at the ground was a huge occasion for him.
The lads finished off with a tribute to recently departed supporter Darren Webb. He was a well known personality amongst all supporters and worked tirelessly for supporters groups. Webby will be sadly missed.
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