Bit of conjecture as to whether Max Mata got the last touch on Sligo’s goal this morning… looks like it probably comes off the defender tbh #FlyingKiwispic.twitter.com/RdxplWw37W
A RR retweet. An optimistic ice cream with Max & Nando on a lovely Spring day in Sligo.
We went to @MammyJohnstons in Strandhill, Sligo with @NZ_Football internationals and Sligo Rovers stars Max Mata and Nando Pijnaker for the next episode of LOIXTRA 🍦
From Flying Kiwis, hopefully just rustiness but it's these type of errors that is why he is where he is currently. Match highlights https://youtu.be/3YINhoqJYo8.
The game away to Shelbourne began with some great news leading into the international break, with Nando Pijnaker fit to return to the starting line-up for Sligo Rovers. Albeit he must’ve returned with some rustiness after missing the previous couple matches as it was his poor touch that allowed the hosts to take the lead inside four minutes.
Nando nearly made quick amends with a powerful header from a corner that went just over the top. No dramas, because half an hour later Niall Morahan scored a belter to tie things up and in the end both teams were fine with sharing the points. 1-1 draw. Max Mata and Nando Pijnaker each with full games – Mata had a couple nice moments where things just didn’t break for him. Now for some All Whites fixtures.
2 wins/1 draw in their last 10 matches. 5 goals scored 15 conceded Mata with only 1 goal in those 10 games too - Way back on May 2nd against St Pat's.
Season has well and truly fallen apart now. But to reiterate my earlier point about the terrible result - Only a 2nd win from 21 games this season for UCD. A team of students!
Yes that is a poor result. Full games both Mata & Pijnaker.
To think about this time last year Sligo were going to be starting an impressive run in the Europa Conference League, including beating SPL's Motherwell.
Tough 2-1 loss, goal coming via the penalty spot at 90+5'. Unfortunately, Pijnaker gave away the penalty, have to wait for highlights to see what for. He also picked up a yellow card in first half added time. Derry had a penalty saved in the 82', though the keeper couldn't double up in added time. Pijnaker also only completed 10 of his 25 passes.
Mata played 90 as well, only having one off-target shot, and had the least touches of any outfielder to play the full 90.
Both teams stay in their positions they were at at kickoff; Sligo are three points off the relegation playoff spot.
From what I've seen it sounds like he had a bit of a stinker in front of the attending Shrewsbury Town gaffer last weekend against Drogheda. So possibly not the best audition for him?
Poor timing because he's been one of their best in a season that has promised more than its delivered. Hopefully though he'll remain on the radar of a few clubs.
