Stealers Wheel were “ Stuck in the middle with you" back in the 1970‘s and City seemed to be stuck in the muddy conditions at Sidford.With cup tie fever gripping the City, this reference can go full circle in line with the heavy,well played on pitch against Sidmouth.
A slightly later start than usual did not allow for any drying of the boggy surface despite some prevailing wind.A City call to arms drew on all 14 available players and a tactical left balance defence,with right side attack, initially gave City the best of the exchanges.A strong Cameron led defence supported by Charlie and Josh,with Man of the Match Will P dropping deep from a midfield role,led to three positive efforts on goal from Dan,Alfie and Tom D,each time the competant home keeper in the right place.
As City switched the play,Dan to Ewan and Sam P on the left,there did not seem to be any problem with the football flowing.As the match went on though,it was City whose footing suffered most.Sidmouth went close following a slight defensive mix up,an open goal shot wide,to relief and good fortune.City rallied to force two corners before Charlie was unable to continue following a head injury and the team were required to restructure, Joe coming on and Ewan dropping to right back.Despite good touches, Will A and Alfie were outnumbered in attack and at halftime City trailed 1-0 following a penalty award for handball.
The second half saw more frustration as it was difficult to connect cleanly with the ball and pass and shoot with any purpose.In this half,fresh legs were introduced,Tom O then Oner joining the Managers rallying calls.The team spirit kicked in,an Alfie corner forced a good save from Dan,Tom D combined with Alfie whose shot somehow stayed out and then finally,Dan took a short corner that Sam P boxed and as the ball stayed in the air,Tom D levelled with a clean volley.
The cup tie atmosphere continued to the end and City clung on,good fortune again with a missed attempt and then due to astonishing bravery as Noah came out to thwart a one on one attempt getting both the ball and a chest full of studs.
So,a draw was taken in the end.Judging by the cup clip below,it seems the Sidford pitch was pretty good.Aspire to a Ronnie Radford moment and consider how many refs would allow that tackle before it:
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