Tuesday 17 April 2012

Rossington 2 (1) - (0) 1 Blues

Blues scorer: Nathan

Player of the Match: Nathan

Linesman: Mr C Byrne

A full compliment of 13 for the penultimate game of the season: Joe, Nathan, Matty, Tom, Steven, Jamie, Mark, Jack, Alex, Liam S(c), Jordan, Adam and Liam F.

The Blues kicked uphill in the first half on what proved a very bobbly pitch. From the off the hosts forced the pace and the Blues were compelled to defend for long periods. Gradually the visitors began to exert their own influence but they were rocked by a home goal midway through the half. The best Blues chance fell to Jordan following an early low cross from the right but the ball got stuck between his feet and the opportunity was gone. The same player appeared to be fouled in the home 18 yard box but the referee did not react.

Half time score 1-0 to Rossington.

With the slope in their favour the visitors had more purchase in the game during the second half but they struggled to string many significant moves together. Nathan began to get sucked further forward in search of an equaliser but the opening never seemed to materialise. Just when it seemed the Blues would draw a blank a long kick from keeper Joe's hands bounced favourably for Nathan and with his back to goal he managed to send a looping header over the standed home keeper into the net off the underside of the cross bar. 1-1. The Blues were suddenly revitalised and the hosts were momentarily rocked back on their feet. A second goal for the Blues proved elusive and the referee ignored claims for a penalty when Jamie had his legs taken away from under him. Late in the game the hosts forced the ball home with a deflected shot to run out 2-1 winners.

Todays match assessors Mrs Swaby and Mr Pinkney selected Nathan for Player of the Match for his commanding performance at right back in the first half and his effectiveness playing a more forward role in the second half and a very good goal. Well done Nathan.

Overall a somewhat lacklustre performance from the Blues where they struggled to get their attacking game going for long periods and were unable to muster sufficient goal threat. A scrappy game not helped by a very uneven pitch and a referee who seemed to miss a number of illegal tackles on some of the Blues players. The team are capable of much better things but perhaps they don't do midweek games too well!

Just a reminder that we need to collect completed ballot papers for the Player of the Season award ASAP.

Next training will take place at Cantley Park on Saturday 21 April 2012 9.00am - 10.15am.

On Sunday 22 April 2012 the Blues play host to Edlington White Stars in their final league fixture of the season.The match kicks off at 10.30am at Cantley Park and players should arrive by 10.00am for warm up drill.

Lets see if we can finish the season with a fourish - good luck everyone!