With most Division 1 teams on Cup duty today, Galaxy were very appreciative that Luton Allstars were also keen to play this week-end. Both teams knew that a win would send them up to second in the league table, so there was plenty to play for as both teams lined up in wintry but dry conditions.

The match could not have started any better for Spartak. With less than a minute on the clock Ethan took possession off the Mambas defender, turned and fired a shot from 30 yards that perfectly looped over the goalkeeper into the back of the net. Galaxy were 1-0 up with less than a minute gone thanks to this goal of the season contender!

The first half was an open affair with both teams using the width of the pitch. Spartak were having such success with Matthew down the right-hand side that the opposition coach was forced to an early tactical change. As the first half progressed Luton began to build up a head of steam and a lovely cross field pass, provided a great opportunity for their striker, but his effort was well parried for a corner by Thomas.

The match was proving to be an end to end affair and after 24 minutes it was Galaxy's turn to attack, which Luton could only stop through a foul about 25 yards from goal. Luke W floated in the free kick to the near side of the goal, This was then flicked on by Ethan and Matthew was on hand to swivel and shoot beyond the goalkeeper to double Galaxy's lead. A true poacher's goal.

Spartak knew, however, that a two goal cushion against a side as strong and talented as Luton Allstars was not enough to become comfortable and they relied on a punch clear from Thomas in a crowded box to keep the advantage intact at half-time.

At the beginning of the second half Luton displayed some great passing and movement and were in the ascendancy without generating any clear cut chances. And, after that initial spurt from the away side, the match developed into a midfield battle with both defences mopping up well when required. This resulted in a half of no shots on target and the game finished with the same scoreline as at halftime.

There were some great performances all over the park for Galaxy today. Ethan was a constant menace in his pressing and this, combined with his hold up play and super strike, made a huge difference today. Owen and Mali in midfield also never stopped running and harrying the opposition, which largely prevented them from firing across their dangerous diagonal through balls. Caelan was also immense in the centre of defence, particularly in the latter stages with one clearing header going beyond the half way line!

Overall, Spartak can take a lot of positives into their next matches and it will be interesting to see how this match affects the rematch with Luton Allstars in the County Cup in a fortnight's time.