With 24 goals scored and 24 goals conceded in their first three games, it was really no surprise to see Checkout involved in yet another high scoring game. In a tense and dramatic affair, Paysafe secured a 9-8 victory to maintain their unbeaten start to the Fintech Football Championship.
If there was a checklist for what makes a game entertaining for the neutral, this clash would tick all the boxes. 17 goals, quality football, amazing saves, late goals and plenty of drama.
After a cagey opening five minutes from both sides, Paysafe struck first with Scotty Bhens firing into the bottom corner. Checkout replied shortly after, and the two sides continued to cancel each other out for the entirety of the first half. Some excellent football on display (Checkout's player manager Barral, was particularly impressive) but neither side could gain a significant advantage before half time.
Both teams put everything into the game and left it all on the pitch. The supporters of both sides could have wished for any more commitment from their players. However, late in the game both sides began to tire, the floodgates opened, and the goals started flying in.
Eight goals a piece tells the story of a very even game, but there was late heartbreak for Checkout. Man of the match Bhens created a yard of space before rifling his shot past the helpless Checkout goalkeeper to secure his fourth goal of the game, and more importantly secure a very hard-fought three points for Paysafe.
Barral will be hoping for more consistency from his talented side as they look to climb the table. Whilst Paysafe will be delighted to keep pace with Revolut and are emerging as the most likely side to make a serious title challenge.
Final Score: Paysafe 9 vs 8 Checkout
Man of the Match: Scotty Bhens