Sunday proved to be a good test of squad strength,with five regulars unavailable for various reasons.We were delighted to be able to call on two experienced replacements (Richard rock solid in goal & Garry all action in mid-field) & it gave us a chance to try some players in different positions. The time-keeping problem re-appeared,with a couple of the T.Wells based players not arriving until well after 10 am,this affects everyone's preparation & must not continue.
A long consultation with Sargent & Turner (Snr) regarding the best way to kick if we won the toss,unsurprisingly proved a complete waste of time. Expecting useful local knowledge, we got a couple of local half-wits. The Putlands groundsmen seem to have a very eccentric grass cutting policy whereby they cut only along the lines marking the pitch & leave the rest to grow, presumably to protect their surface. The main result is that long grass makes passing difficult & although we started the better side we were struggling to create chances against hard working opponents.
We eventually took the lead,when their defence failed to deal with a corner from Garry & Lewis scored his first goal of the season. We continued to press & towards the end of the half, their 'keeper did well to block an effort from Richard with his feet.
At half- time,the importance of sticking with our passing game, despite the difficulties,was stressed,as it was obvious that their fitness levels would not allow them to compete for 90 minutes. We didn‘t begin the second half at all well & this allowed them their first real possession in the game, but they were not troubling Richard in goal,despite forcing a couple of corners. We began to re-assert ourselves & the standard of football began to improve. Tom G. came on as sub. for Joe, with Rishi pushing up front & it was from Tom's corner that the second goal came.
Nick E. was first to react to the inswinger & a firm header gave him his first of the season. Richard Stanton's fine run saw him beat two defenders before he was brought down & the ref. awarded the spot kick.Richard took it himself, but it was a poor effort & their ‘keeper made an easy save. We had further chances to score but failed to capitalise, but that was immaterial given their failure to create any credible opportunities.
Overall,we were happy to come home with the points & have now won our last four league games on the bounce,which is a run we must continue if we are to challenge the leaders. There is room for improvement but the competition for places in the squad gives cause for optimism.Next week is the Junior Cup & a win could set us up with an interesting tie.
Team:
R.Sayell,
T.Lowe,
L.Smith,
N.Sargent,
N. Edwards,
G.Knight,
R.Patel,
L.West,
L.Hattle,
J.Upstone,
R.Stanton.
Subs
S.Weller for T.Lowe,
C.White for L.West,
T.Gent for J.Upstone