Atherstone United vs Gresley Rovers
After suffering defeat at home to Atherstone United on the opening match of the season we knew this was going to be a tough encounter. Atherstone are a very physical side who came down from the premier division last year.
Gresley paraded two new signings in this fixture, Brian Barker who was signed from Burton Albion and Jamie Dunn. Both players started the game with Dunn playing in a sweeper's role and Barker up front.
The first 20 minutes saw both teams having a midfield battle and trying to hit on the break, chances fell to Kris Vernon, Brian Barker and Dan Foster but all failed to work the keeper.
Tom Skinner also saw a free kick saved whilst at the other end our own keeper Tom Lenihan had a couple of shots on target to deal with. Atherstone started to have a good spell with 15 minutes remaining - pinning us back in our own half but not really creating much in the way of clear-cut chances.
No changes at half time but we had to press quicker in midfield and not allow Atherstone to settle. Unfortunately they hit us on the counter and scored with a shot from the right beating Lenihan into the far corner.
A quiet spell followed with Atherstone having most of the possession. With 10 minutes remaining, Kris Vernon (knee injury) made way for Alex Boult who took his opportunity and made three or four telling crosses from the right. With only three minutes remaining, we made the break through when Alex Boult's run was spotted by young Johnie Guthrie and he went on to put in a good cross. Atherstone failed to deal with it and debutant Brian Barker side footed into the bottom left to equalise. This was how it was to finish, honours even and probably deservedly so.
Key performances from Brian Barker, Chris Mawby, Johnie Guthrie and man of the match skipper Dan Foster.
Also a big well done to three players who played for our reserve team at the weekend, namely Jak Ward, Chris Mawby and Kris Vernon. I hope this is the way forward for the youth team - I know it means so much to everyone involved.
Thank you for your support,
Dean Amess (assistant manager)
