Well, that was incredible. I woke up at 6 this morning, still buzzing and desperate to watch the winner from Charles, on repeat.
There seemed to be something special in the air last night, even before the match started. As we approached the Stadium about 15 minutes before KO, you could hear the noise growing, which ascended to a crescendo as the fireworks commenced. A huge round of "Owen the Saints" stopped and then started again when a yellow-shirted supporter (ex-player?) grabbed the microphone and led a decibel-breaking last chorus before the match commenced.
The atmosphere was off the charts, louder than the West Brom play-off, for sure.
Every player did their part, and nobody could be faulted (yes, there was the odd mistake, but that will always happen). Cameron Bragg was immense, so calm and assured for someone so young. I'm really looking forward to seeing him develop over the next few seasons. Finn Azaz was elegant, probing, and always a threat. Taylor was lion-hearted as always and looked imperious, marshalling Wood at the back, no doubt confident that if the line was breached, they had Peretz in goal behind them. Stewart gave Gabriel the run-around more than once and seemed to find another yard or two of space, what a pity we have been robbed of seeing more pitch-time from him, he is a very complete striker. Scienza was a constant nuisance to the Arsenal back line, although his end product let him down on the night; it was great to see him standing on the halfway line when Arsenal had a corner. Great to see Fellows back to his best, with direct running, capped off with a measured pass for the winning goal. Surely his debut goal must come soon. Casper seemed to be everywhere, and made numerous interceptions, keeping the Arsenal midfield harried and under pressure.
And, finally, we were rewarded with the perfect ending. It was such a relief to leave the Stadium with the warm glow of victory, rather than wondering what might have been. The Stadium was still full, 10 minutes after the whistle went, as the players did a lap of the pitch and everyone sung their hearts out for the lads.
Surely, this must be something to build upon, what an end to a season,that promised so little under Will. Still, it could be.
A huge week coming up, let's take this support and form to Wrexham and go again.
COYR !!!!!!!
