What a game to kick off Group B of the FFC. Hammock eventually ran out 9-8 winners against Tide, but both teams will fancy their chances of making a big impact in the league.
Hammock came into the game as one of the bookies favourites and in the opening exchanges they looked more than worthy of that tag. Some free flowing and attacking football saw them race into an early 3 goal lead, inspired by quick interplay between the likes of Jonathan Amoah, Ruemu Abutoh and Manoj Varsani.
This was not the start that Tide manager Paddy Stafford had planned for and it looked like the flood gates might open. However, the Tide team are made of stern stuff, they regrouped and struck back quickly through Andrew Denholm and Connor MacMillan to limit the deficit at half time.
The second half followed a similar pattern as Hammock once again opened up a big lead, Abutoh and Ayo both helping themselves to 4 goals a piece. Hammock manager Varsani would have been forgiven was thinking that the game was over and that the 3 points were in the bag. But Tide once again rallied, led by James Forrester and Liam Thomas in midfield and a man of the match performance from Andrew Denholm up front (who bagged a hat trick). With a minute to go, the game was evenly poised and Hammock led by a single goal, Tide continued to push but were unable to score a final goal and secure what would have been a valuable point.
Hammock will meet Payoneer in their next game, another team which won their first game. Whilst Tide will play Allica Bank with both teams looking to get off the mark.
Final Score: Hammock 9 vs 8 Tide
Man of the Match: Andrew Denholm