章節 24: At Motspur Park II

The electric atmosphere at Motspur Park was palpable as Fulham U21s took to the pitch for their league opener against Brighton and Hove Albion's U21 team. The stands were filled with eager spectators, and the anticipation was a physical presence in the air. Marcus felt the familiar buzz of adrenaline coursing through him as he took his place on the left wing.

From the outset, it was clear that Aaron Connolly was every bit the threat Coach Anderson had warned them about. His pace and agility caused trouble for Fulham's defense, weaving through their lines with an almost effortless grace. Several times, he managed to create dangerous chances, but Fulham's backline held firm, and their goalkeeper made a series of crucial saves to keep the game in a stalemate.

The match was a tense, hard-fought battle. Both teams pressed hard, each trying to find a breakthrough. Marcus focused on his role, tracking back to help defend and surging forward to support the attack. The game was fast and physical, with neither side willing to give an inch.

Midway through the first half, Brighton earned a corner. Marcus took his position near the edge of the box, ready to break forward if they managed to clear the ball. The corner was swung in, but it was headed out by one of Fulham's defenders. Marcus sprinted up the pitch, joining the counter-attack. The ball was played quickly through midfield, and Fulham surged forward.

Just as the play seemed to open up for a promising attack, disaster struck. Brighton's central defender, in a desperate bid to stop the counter, launched into a heavy tackle on Fulham's central attacking midfielder, James Morgan. James went down hard, clutching his ankle in pain. The referee blew his whistle, signaling for the medical team to come on.

Coach Anderson was on his feet, his face a mask of concern and fury. "What the hell was that?" he shouted, directing his anger at the referee and the Brighton bench. "That's a bloody reckless tackle!"

The medics attended to James, but it was clear he wouldn't be able to continue. Anderson turned to his bench, scanning the players. His frustration grew when he realized they had no natural central attacking midfielders available.

He called Marcus over, his expression a mix of determination and apology. "Marcus, you're going to have to step into the central attacking role."

Marcus blinked in surprise. "Me, coach?"

"You've got the vision and the skills," Anderson said, his tone firm. "We need someone who can drive us forward, and I trust you to do that. Can you handle it?"

Marcus nodded, though a flicker of doubt crossed his mind. "Yes, coach. I'll do my best."

As he took his new position in the center of the pitch, Marcus felt a mixture of nerves and excitement. This was a big responsibility, but it was also a chance to prove himself in a crucial role. He glanced over at the bench, where his teammates were giving him encouraging nods.

The game resumed, and Marcus took a deep breath, settling into his new position. He focused on the ball, his mind racing with strategies and possibilities. He knew this was a pivotal moment, not just for the match, but for his own journey. He was ready to face the challenge head-on, determined to make the most of this unexpected opportunity.