Headstone Manor YFC

Match Report - 11th April 2010

The Bs lost again at home and dropped to the bottom of Division 3. But it’s still very tight at the bottom and wins in their last two matches could see them finish mid table. All to play for.

In league places there was an entire division between these teams. Charville arrived as Champions having only been promoted last season. But on the pitch, there didn’t look much that much between them. What the Bs lacked was a cutting edge and that difference saw the points go to Charville.

For the first time in three matches the Bs went into the game with the luxury of a substitute. The balance of play was fairly even but Charville used the ball better and cut through the Bs defence more readily. But Jay and Ali were outstanding. Jay used his speed, strength and determination to chase back and smother several onrushing strikers. Ali was cool, controlled and showed excellent communication. CJ played for the first time at right back and slotted in well getting up and down the line providing strength and good support play.

The Bs midfield didn’t link well enough and, yet again, the Bs were too hurried and desperate in their distribution. Consequently they repeatedly yielded possession cheaply. But there were chances for them. CJ, Luis and Conor had first half chances. But Joe went the closest when he nearly gave the Bs the lead with what would have been a spectacular goal. From a great Kyle corner he produced an overhead kick that smacked the crossbar.

On 27 minutes, Charville took the lead breaking through the defence and as Jay chased back and Stephen rushed out, the striker won the race and tucked the ball home. In the last 10 minutes the Bs brought on Shomari to play up front. Luis dropped to centre midfield to take the place of Jordan.

At half time the Bs swapped Ali to centre back and Joe to left back. Charville had had the better chances but the Bs were well in with the chance to get the game back. There were fewer chances this half and the Bs suffered from a few injuries. Russ, Kyle and Joe all had knocks and Joe soon had to come off. Jordan came back on, Kyle switched to left back.

Luis and Russ had chances this half. A couple of these went desperately close. At the other end Charville produced a shot that beat Stephen, hit the bar and the post and was then cleared by Jay. On 61 minutes a quick break saw the visitors grab the match winning goal a neat chip that dropped just under the crossbar.

Jay was man of the match. He returned after missing the last few games and made a real impact. Strong, quick, great tackling and very good in the air. Ali, yet again, was also superb, CJ looked very good at right back, Conor was the best of the midfield players and Stephen, again, produced several outstanding saves to keep the Bs in the game.

Plenty of celebrations at the end for Charville delighted with two consecutive titles – a great achievement. Congratulations to them and good luck for next season. For the Bs the nail biting finale continues. Two games to stay up, both at home against teams in the bottom half who are also desparate for the points.