Last week's gritty win against Goodfellas had been the ideal response to the lacklustre Horley Boyz performance and with a couple of results elsewhere going our way had reignited the possibility of a late run for the play-offs. With this in mind, tonight's game had an added edge as Jiggle were taking on Brazil Almighty, Autumn Fives quarter-finalists and flying high as the closest challengers to White Knights at the top of the league. A fascinating tussle was set for the hallowed arena that is Pitch 3...

Brazil Almighty 1 FC Jiggle 1 (Cohen 15)

Sam Cohen struck a record-breaking sixth goal of the season and secured his side a point as Jiggle pegged back high-flying Brazil Almighty with a fine second-half comeback.

After an uninspiring opening ten minutes the decision was taken at half-time to attack and damn well give the opposition something to think about. And it worked a treat. Sam's goal means he has now surpassed the five scored by Nick Hawtin back in Autumn 2002 and now has four games left to add to his haul.

The Jigglers took to the pitch unchanged from the Goodfellas win with Nick Rapley unable to take his place in the line-up due to work commitments. Dave Carling, scheduled for sub stepped back into attack alongside Sam Cohen. David Leake and Stuart MacPherson continued at the back. Excellent news on the injury front also arrived this week with Andy Li Chong set to return to the St.Francis Flyers II side on Saturday, hopefully signalling a return to Jiggle action in the coming weeks.

Roy's whistle kicked off the action, though it could be argued Jiggle didn't notice. The opening period meandered on with Jiggle seemingly too concentrated on keeping the Brazilians dangerous front-man quiet and as a result finding it hard to break out of the defensive third. It was a case of giving the opposition too much respect. When Jiggle went for it later on it was clear there were weaknesses in the Brazil armoury that could be exploited.

Brazil were immediately on the attack and Phil had to be alert to block inside the opening moments. Soon after the Jiggle keeper was grateful to tonight's extended warm-up as he was fully extended to divert a long-range strike from the dangerous front-man away from the top corner.

Jiggle were defending pretty well but a little deep for comfort. Dave Leake and Stuart MacPherson both made some good blocks and Sam Cohen tracking back made, for the second week running a fine interception when danger beckoned.

That said Brazil were forcing a number of corners and it was one of these which brought the breakthrough. It came in from the Brazil left, Stu and the attacker tussled on the very edge of the box. Stu was in the box, the attacker may have strayed too but when the crucial moment arrived he was outside and made no mistake to convert into the far corner.

Going a goal down semi-galvanised Jiggle and Dave Carling had the side's first goal attempt driving over soon after. Brazil were quite happy to protect their advantage for the remainder of the half and the ten minutes ended with little further to worry either goalkeeper.

Half-time saw a key change in Jiggle's mental approach. It was resolved to attack and give the opposition something to think about. Much better to lose 4-0 going for it than 1-0 playing cautiously.

Instantly, Jiggle's prospects looked much brighter. Now there was a conscious effort to push the play upfield, not defend too deep and to get men forward. Immediately it began to pay dividends as Stu and Sam combined well to provide Dave Carling a half-chance which flew just over the bar.

Jiggle were beginning to realise that there were chances to be had and a golden one was created two minutes into the half as Phil launched a great throw which caused enough confusion in defence for Sam to turn the last man but unfortunately fire his shot well wide. It was a precursor for what was to follow.

The difference was the game was now being played in the middle third. Brazil were having to work harder to create openings and Jiggle were getting in on the act. Midway through the half Jiggle got their reward for a fine fightback.

Like three minutes earlier Phil delivered the ball with an early throw, Sam nipped in behind the defence and converted the equaliser with clinical aplomb into the bottom corner.

It was important to retain the tempo and Jiggle continued with an attacking intent. A minute or two later it was nearly 2-1 but Sam was adjudged inside the box when neatly chipping the Brazil keeper.

Brazil, growing more frustrated looked to press for a winner of their own but good Jiggle defending ensured their opportunities were limited. Two efforts fizzed wide of the target before Phil was sharply down at the near post to deny the bald front-man after he'd crafted a good opportunity down the right.

Inside the closing minute and Jiggle pressing on were caught 2 on 1. Enter Dave Carling with a terrific late covering run to clear up the danger.

Roy's whistle ended a good and competitive game, which didn't need the petty kick aimed at Dave Carling by the talented but decidedly fiesty Brazil forward. Dave performed his civic duty and advised him to be on better behaviour in future (that was what you said wasn't it Dave?). Still, Dave becomes a member of a growing club, joining David Leake and Jon Hawtin who were kicked by the same player in last year's New Year match against BT Dynamos. But that shouldn't detract from a competitive game with the point apiece the right result.

Jiggle now head forth to Croydon for some extra match practice in a Power League tournament on Sunday. It is hoped a good turnout will be rustled up over the next 24 hours to enable Jiggle to take their place for what should be an enjoyable runout. Switching the focus back to the league and next Friday sees Jiggle taking on Caledonian Old Boys. Always a pleasure, and once again one to look forward to as Jiggle go hunting for their first win against Cally.

Team: Phil Laker, David Leake, Stuart MacPherson, Dave Carling, Sam Cohen.