Today saw are first return fixture of the season, against Lanes End, and over the two matches we have to admit, we should have taken all six points instead of the two we have.
In both games we have conceded in the last 3 minutes of the match.
We started really well today and had the elements against us in the first half, but with better finishing could have been 2-0 up in the first 15 mins. However, are play dropped off towards the last 20mins of the half and but for some excellent saves from Rob, could have been more than 1-0 down at half time. Their goal came via a very well struck shot from about 30 yards that Rob done well to get anything on at all.
The second half started much the same as the first, except that we converted a chance via the right foot of Joe Passey.
We continued to pressure them, and they became more rattled, with which a lot of bad tackles and off the ball incidents were going on.
Our pressure finally told, and after some excellent work out wide by Steve Waterman, we went ahead when Chris Ells tapped in.
2-1 up and cruising, and if anyone was to score again, it would be us. That was until I witnessed one of the most ridiculous pieces of Lunacy I have ever seen on a football pitch.
After we had played the ball out because of an injury, Lanes End to their credit returned it to our keeper Rob. He decided to stand over the ball, to waste a bit of time. Their forward sprinted towards him to make him pick the ball up, which Rob did, but as their player went past Rob, he decided to stick his leg out and up end him. Myself and Phil were stunned into silence at what we had just seen. After the crowd seen around the Ref, the result was a penalty, which they dually converted. 2-2 end of game, and 2 points thrown away.
Credit has to go out to the team, once again for the effort and character they showed to come from behind, and despite an individuals crazy moment, would have gained a valuable victory.
A final mention to the Usual team members who worked tirelessly, but a special mention for Steve Lindsey, who came in at late notice and played very well.
Squad
R Mansfield
A.James
D.Hymers
P.Washer
M.Wood
A.Mearing
J.Passey
S.Lindsey
L.Gent
C.Ells
S.Waterman.