Sunday can be summed up quite simply - great performance, great result.
The pre-match talk asked that the players stepped up to the mark and that they delivered a much improved performance from the previous games where they had been sloppy and at half pace. To their credit all fourteen, that took part, did so and the change in application and output was clearly evident.
We started well, had the better of the opening exchanges and should have taken the lead on fifteen minutes when a cross by Alun Evans evaded both the keeper and defenders leaving Dave Burren with a tap in which he unfortunately screwed wide. The opening goal arrived though on twenty five minutes when Mark Lester, who was industrious throughout, broke from midfield and played Danny McGahan in on a one on one with the keeper, unselfishly Danny squared the ball to the unmarked Alun Evans who was left with a simple side foot home. The remainder of the half saw us continue to dominate although we were unable to get the all important second. Gardeners remained threatening when in possession but defensively we were looking very solid and rarely did they look like scoring. We finished the half perfectly with Mark Lester creating the chance for Danny McGahan for fire home from close in.
At half time credit was given for a very good first forty five minutes but it was emphasised that we were only halfway there and that it was important that we killed the game off and didn’t allow them back in. This we did within a minute of the re-start Marc Wood breaking through their defence and finding Danny McGahan who finished well. Having effectively won the game we eased off a little and Gardeners started to apply some pressure. The defence though was excellent and remained in control throughout the remainder of the half.
So a good win which puts us back in a strong position. Gardeners remain a good side who will be involved at top come the end of the season - that said we were three goals better than them on the day and it was pleasing to see us back playing some good attacking football whilst remaining very solid defensively.
Team:
L.Baker
A.Lindsey
S.Hunter
N.Coxon
I.Ward
M.Wood
G.Manser
G.Manser
M.Lester
D.McGahan
D.Burren
A.Evans
Subs:
A.Chapman (for Lester)
M.Millins (for Hunter)
L.Gent (for Evans)
S.Harper (d.n.p)