City vs United, Real vs Atletico, Inter vs AC…wherever you are in the world, every football fan knows that local derbies provide the perfect recipe for drama, excitement, and entertainment.
When it comes down to two teams from the same club playing each other – in this case PASS Masters vs PASS Legends – you know there’s going to be fireworks.
The pre-match hype surrounding this match had reached fever pitch on Thursday morning following an alleged confrontation between opposing players in the BSAK playground. PASS Head Coach, Seth Amoafo, tried his best to play down the incident during his pre-match interview with Gulf Youth Sport, stating that his players' performance would not be affected by the increased tensions and emotions surrounding the match.
Kick-off
Unsurprisingly, following the pre-match histrionics, the first-half started in explosive fashion, with several full blooded challenges flying in from both sides. After the initial nervous energy subsided, both teams began to stroke the ball around with composure in an open and entertaining first half.
Midway through the first half the Legends drew first blood – Laurence Smith smashing home the opener to put the men in green in front.
To their credit, PASS Masters responded brilliantly. Captain marvel Zach Birkwood – sporting the trademark golden flowing locks that even David Ginola would be jealous of – bringing his side level, before an audacious curling effort from Reef Gagaro, direct from a corner kick, edged the yellow-clad men in front.
As the match drew to a close, Legends upped their efforts as they desperately sought the equalizer. With five minutes to go, their relentless pressure eventually paid dividends; Shayaan Omar crashing home to level the match.
If the crowd thought the Masters would be happy to settle for a point, they were wrong. With the Legends still regrouping following their equalizer, Reef Gagaro seized the initiative for his side, taking the ball straight from kick off and driving through the heart of the Legends defence. Legends goalkeeper, Jude Roberts, who was outstanding all day, tried desperately to thwart the attack, but Gagaro masterfully steered his finish into the corner to secure the three points and earn his side bragging rights in the school playground for at least a few weeks.
Full-Time: PASS Masters 3 – 2 PASS Legends
PASS Abu Dhabi Founder and Head Coach, Seth Amoafo, was delighted with the way both teams approached the match:
"It was fantatsic to see two closely matched teams and sets of friends demonstrate real competitive spirit this morning. We had fantastic shots, great saves, strong tackles and even a goal direct from a corner! It was an entertaining match! For me personally, it's brilliant to see how this Abu Dhabi Youth League has given our young players the platform and opportunity to be involved in regular competitive matches. This can only be good for their football development."