Match Report  |  Gresley FC vs Loughborough Dynamo

There were some slight doubts as to whether the game would go ahead as there had been a sharp overnight frost but the correct decision to wait for the match referee who declared the pitch fit to play on. Although the surface was very soft both teams served up a warming display of football.

Gresley manager Wayne Thornhill made changes to his side giving a debut to new signing goalkeeper Liam Roberts. Matt Roome came in at right back and with Jake Carlisle injured Liam Guest was started alongside Jamie Barrett at the heart of the defence.

Unfortunately, this was the last game for Guest as he returns to the US to continue his studies and playing career but he showed clearly why Thornhill was pleased to give him a few games while he was visiting family over the Christmas and New Year period.

Luke Edwards was also given the start although there are still doubts over his hamstrings but he more than rewarded the manager for picking him even though he only played the first forty-five minutes.

Loughborough Dynamo have had well documented problems off field and their side contained just five of the side that faced Gresley at the beginning of October. They included two former Moatmen in recent signings from Stapenhill Alex Britton and Tom Liversage.

Before the game kicked off a presentation was made to Gresley skipper Jamie Barrett who had made his 500th appearance for Gresley Rovers and Gresley FC against Newcastle Town last Saturday.

Gresley started the match and were soon on the front foot forcing some early corners. They took the lead on 17 minutes when Luke Edwards got the better of a defender before taking a couple of strides and clipping the ball past Dynamo keeper Joe McCormack.

They doubled their advantage just two minutes later. A corner from the left by Jack Langston was returned to him and he put in a cross which Edwards got his head to flicking it into the net at the near post.

It wasn't until the end of the first half that Dynamo had a chance on target. They were playing some nice football but without an end result. However, Matt Thorne brought out a smart save from Roberts at his near post. They followed this with a shot on the turn by Matt Langham which was deflected for a corner but it was Gresley that finished the half on top with a cross from the left by Lucas Harrison being narrowly headed over by Edwards.

Gresley made changes at the break with Chris Richards replacing Edwards and he was soon having an effect. His cross from the right picked out Russ Peel over on the left who took a touch to control the ball before flashing a shot across the goal and wide of the far post.

Another rare attempt on goal by the visitors produced a low shot from Niall Dawkins which was dealt with comfortably by Roberts at his near post.

Rob Mulonga replaced the injured Peel and was soon in the thick of things. Dynamo defender Mason Holwell was fortunate to still be on the pitch when he cynically fouled Mulonga as he sped past him only to be shown a yellow card by the lenient Mr Wilkes. Mulonga then made another good run down the right but his cross landed on the top of the net.

The speedy wing man was at it again two minutes later. He broke through the Dynamo back line and into the area where he rounded the advancing McCormack who brought him down. Mr Wilkes did not hesitate in pointing to the spot but astounded players and supporters alike in only showing a yellow card when the keeper had clearly prevented a goal scoring chance. Alex Steadman took the kick scoring his fifth penalty in as many games.

Harrison then tested McCormack drilling a powerful low shot from the edge of the area which the keeper could only parry. Minutes later Harrison turned provider setting up Steadman whose shot was well blocked by McCormack. Mulonga then provided Harrison with another chance but he fired over the bar.

The fourth and final goal came as the ninety minutes drew to a close. Steadman caught Howell napping and stole the ball off the bewildered defender who could not move his legs to respond as the Gresley striker strode forward. The final cross was perfect for Martin Smyth who, racing into the area smashed the ball home.