Today's fixture was an excellent opportunity for Pembury to take full advantage of their games in hand & move up the table. With a strong squad at Pembury's disposal, the home side were well equipped for this double header.
After completing demoralising the away side, this next fixture should have been a mere formality. However, it was fair to say that a number of the Pembury players did not get out of the starting blocks, assuming the job was already done.
The away team started the stronger, but it was Pembury's top sunday goalscorer Brooker that took the first honours. Unfortunately, this was shortly followed by an Insulators equaliser. Although the sides went in level at half-time it was clear the visitor's confidence was running high, considering the previous result.
The second half followed a similar format to the first, it was only a matter of time before Insulators would take the lead....and they did! The Pembury management responded immediately, Washer made way for Gunning, reverting to a 3-5-2 formation to counter Insulator's energetic midfield. The last twenty minutes was all Pembury, with the ball camped in Insulator's half. With 10 minutes to go Brooker came to the rescue, not for the first time this season, 2-2. Game On!
Numerous chances were wasted by Pembury as they pushed for the winning goal. It looked as if the home side would have to settle for a single point, when moments from full-time Brooker beat his marker for pace (shocker!) & crossed into the six yard box. The ball floated over an out of position keeper, only to be headed over by Ells from 4 yards out. This was particularly unfair as the winning goal would have capped good displays from Ells in both games. Unfortunately Pembury's efforts were too little, too late. But will the team learn anything from it?
Magic Moment: Brooker - equalising goal
Carlton Palmer Clanger: Lindsey - for not making the tactical change at half time
Reporter's Roy of the Rovers: Bowyer - Captain's performance in both games
Squad
S.Macmillan
T.Bowyer (cpt)
L.Washer
S.Waterman
D.Hymers
B.Brooker
C.Ells
D.Green
S.Colbran
S.Evans
C.Mearing
Subs:
L.Gunning (for Washer)