Two match reports once more,this time the second the penultimate contest of the season.The first one,a home season bow against Twyford is best described by an Ultravox song title....”Sleepwalk”.Starting with the statistics;On 7/5/16 playing 3/5/2 with 11 vs 9 and winning 1-0.
Any advantage in the numbers disappeared in psychology and tactics.There wasn’t the perceived urgency of competition and Twyford were set up well,not to chase lost or even 50/50 possibilities and defended with determination.City had late unavailability and a no sub team once again but it was fully 21 minutes played before a shot was made on the Twyford goal.
With the City striker gingerly marshalled throughout the contest and out of the game,the midfield just could not keep the ball long enough to string moves and passes together.Halftime came and went and there were audible signs of relief when Dan struck the only goal of the game with a fine individual effort,15 minutes before the final whistle blew.
Josh tested the eyesight near the end,landing the ball on the roof of the net and Tom D collected the Man of the Match award for keeping the Duracell batteries running.But City needed to pick up for Wednesdays visit of Cullompton Rangers and have an eye on the tactics for presumably a full Twyford side on the 14th.
Starting in humid conditions on Wednesday evening,Cullompton kicked off playing towards the car park end.The heavy pitch,mainly as a result of long grass,made a passing game difficult and especially against a strong,physical side.After an early scare alleviated by Noahs’ excellent handling,City pressed on following the first of many Will P corners and picked up the bit.Notable efforts were a Cameron freekick that sailed over and several quick moves that forced saves.Finally,after plenty of City chances including a pinball type event where the ball went everywhere bar the net,the whistle blew seconds after a breakaway Cullompton goal,which deflated spirits.
Injuries started to pile up in the second half,a hobbling Oner replaced by Will A,and Tom D and Ewan finishing the game limping.City had turned the game around with an Alfie brace,both from high throughballs from midfield,the first a powerful shot and the second a calm header on a one on one with the keeper.However despite Dan and Sam creating from midfield,the ball was lost and switch offs in concentration allowed the opposition to win the game 2-3 with well taken goals giving Noah no chance.After 70 minutes play plus injury time,Will P still ran the whole length of the pitch to prevent one of Cullomptons’ strongest players the chance of a further opportunity.
As the mist rolled in from the coast and also on Citys’ season,the final rematch away at Twyford looms.Men of the Match for this one were Josh for defensive acumen and Charlie for right wing play of the same.
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