Gresley Rovers vs Blackheath Town
This was a very important fixture for us, a stepping-stone on how we had improved so far this term. When we had to play away we were 3-0 down inside 20 mins and needed all our strength to keep it at that, we feel we have reached a crossroads with more players becoming available and that little bit of lady luck we must start climbing up the table.
Home and away, it makes no difference this league is very difficult and Blackheath were no exception. The first half went pretty much to plan closing down very quickly and creating good chances, limiting the opposition to very little. A team performance was on the bill and all players were up for it. Tom Skinner, Andy Foster and Kris Vernon looked unbeatable at the back and Ben Cooper playing up front caused chaos for the away team, Jack Ward created good opportunities and Pete Wileman battled hard in midfield.
No score at half time although I thought we were always the more likely team to get the opening. The mood was good in the dressing room and all the lads wanted to get back on the pitch and get on with the job in hand, this time team formation stayed the same and no subs were needed at this stage.
Second half started at a very high tempo, this had to be the match of the day with tackles flying in from both teams and plenty of banter. Then a swift move involving D. Alexander, Dan Foster and Ben Hur saw Stu Lynne riffle the ball into the net from 18 yards out giving the keeper no chance, a goal that he deserved after playing very well in recent games without getting the praise.
Slowly Blackheath put the pressure on and on 80 mins saw a ball over the top see Tom Lenihan Home alone but although he had been little tested he came up trumps with a fine block.
Joe Brokley, Adam Cliffe and Nathan Crute came on in the last few mins to help bolster the middle, Ben Cooper dropped into midfield, which left us with a sole striker. When the final whistle came I must admit it was a great relief to the players get back what they had put into the game, well-done boys.
A mention must go to the outstanding performance from man of the match for the second time this week after he get the same honour for the reserves at the weekend, central defender Kris Vernon.
Thanks to all staff at the Moat for looking after us and to all the supporters who braved the cold.
Dean Amess (asst manager)
Thanks for your support.
