Gresley FC vs Barwell
1. Paul Hollis 2. Darryl Towle 3. Joe Swift 4. Lee Stretton (c) 5. Sam Rose 6. Andy Dunn 7. Sam Worth 8. Dave Williams 9. Tom Read 10. Chris Burnham 11. Ash Franklin 12. Matt Draycott 14. Adam Mewis 15. Josh Pearson 16. Jake Sharpe
With five regulars missing today we had to make a number of changes and decided to draft two lads in from the youth team, and with games running out this is a good time to give a few of the younger lads a chance to show what they can do. Barwell are a decent and youthful side but we were hoping to return to winning ways following 3 straight defeats.
As has been the way in recent games we gave ourselves an uphill battle by falling behind as early as the 11th minute when a chance was put away at the second attempt and again we should've dealt with it better. We weren't closing players down quick enough and Barwell were able to play the ball around too easily, whereas they were closing us down as soon as we had possession. More worryingly we weren't carrying out instructions given before the game which we really must start listening and taking on board what we are asking of players, both individually and as a team to stand any chance of coming out on top.
On 27 mins we were two down when a good save was followed up for a simple tap in and again we've made things very difficult for ourselves. The remainder of the half was far too comfortable for Barwell as they patiently built from the back and we again were having to chase a game. The passing that had been much improved against Walsall had again deserted us and we were just resorting to long hopeful balls and creating little.
The second half saw the introduction of Josh Pearson at right back and then Jake Sharpe and Matt Draycott up front and a switch to a 3-3-4 formation as we had nothing to lose. We became more direct and did create a few chances but again the finishing wasn't there and we really need to find a mean streak in front of goal.
This is now 4 defeats in a row which is hard to take..particularly the manner of some of the defeats compared to our performances before this run. The only positives to come from the night were the performances of the two youth team lads who acquitted themselves well and dind't look out of place at a higher level which was encouraging..I'm sure a few more will get there chance in the coming weeks.
Were at home to Chasetown next which will be a tough challenge but we will be looking for a marked improvement and for the squad to show some character and pride in their performances, and if we can put a good shift in I'm sure we can take something from the game.
