Match Report - 25 January 2004

The B team's first goalless draw but this was a thoroughly entertaining match with chances at both ends and good performances by both teams. Ruislip had more of the play in the first half while Headstone were stronger in the second half. But both goalkeepers had good games and neither team could find a way through.

Russell was captain for the first time and he and Ciaran started in defence in front of Jordan Wright in goal. Jordan Coleman, Thomas and Brett started in midfield with Kushal up front. Jordan Wright had more to do in this game than in the previous two matches but he looked solid and made some good saves. Midway through the half one of their midfield players found his way clean through with only Jordan to beat. Jordan stood his ground and the player shot wide. Russell and Ciaran worked well at the back but Headstone struggled to win the loose balls and keep possession.

During the half Warren and Daniel replaced Thomas and Ciaran. Kushal had Headstone's only shots, one of which rebounded off the post and was cleared. Headstone forced several corners and Brett delivered some good inswinging corners from the right hand side but they couldn't get a clear shot from them. Warren worked hard in the centre and Jordan made a good run past a couple of Ruislip's midfield players to set up a chance.

In the second half Kushal came off, Brett moved up front, Thomas came on and Ciaran came on for Russell. Early in the half Jordan picked up the ball on the edge of the area and hit a high dipping shot that the keeper did well to save. Ruislip had a couple of good strong players and Jordan, Warren, Thomas, Ciaran and Daniel had to work very hard to deny them. Midway through the half Kushal and Russell returned in place of Brett and Daniel.

Ruislip's keeper had difficulty clearing the ball and for long periods Headstone kept Ruislip pinned in their half. Kushal did well up front and had three good shots but, again, the keeper saved well. Warren and Thomas also had chances from a series of well delivered corners by Jordan. Towards the end of the game, after being forced back in their half, Ruislip broke out and created a couple of good chances. One of which ended in a stinging shot from outside the area that Jordan Wright did well to push over.

In the end a draw was a fair result. All the players did well. Having conceded seven goals in their opening two matches they did well to keep a clean sheet. Jordan Wright was strong in goal, the three defenders had a good game and were well supported by the midfield. Jordan Coleman was man of the match for his good work in midfield.