Todays game saw us entertain Liden Community who sitting just above us in the league ensured a battle was about to commence. Having a full squad to pick from was a delight for ex manager Maggie (as Andy was away on Level 1 duties) but then Liden arrived and announced they only had 6 players as two had call in earlier unable to play – so being the good sports we are we played with only 6 aswell – whether or not this was a good decision – only time was going to tell.

The game started well with the line up to begin with of Andy (chunk) in goal, welcome back as damaging his hand prior to last weeks fixture, defence of JD and George, Midfield of Miles and Martin with Danny alone up front. Liden went looking for the early break knowing they never had any subs for later, and were rewarded within a few minutes of kick off with a goal when they ran straight through the half asleep bassett team. Bassett not to give in straight away started to wake up, a throw in by Martin ran on by Danny who shot just wide. A goal kick taken well by Chunk saw a mis-kick by Danny and again the ball went just wide of the post. With changes made with both George and Martin took off to be replaced by Callum and Josh good play started to emerge and if was from some good play by Callum, not giving in and another run by Danny saw us bring the scores back level.

Within a few minutes from kick off we found ourselves in the unusual position of being in front, an excellent lob by Danny caught the Liden keeper off guard and again found the back of the net. Kick off again and Liden went straight on the attack and were unlucky when the ball came off the bar, but bassett started to relax and Liden found a route too easy through the defence and bad marking and a goal – level at 2-2 at the half time break.

Second half began with further changes made, Miles now taking a turn in goal as Chunks wrist was playing up, and Louis bought on to replace Miles in midfield, the game started as the first half ended, both sides battling for the next break through and Liden again were unlucky when they were awarded a free-kick but this was well saved by Miles. The resulting goal kick led to another run by Danny who again shot just wide – Danny has to remember to take the easy route and if a pass is there and looks the better option then to take it.

As time went by the game was being won and lost in midfield, with a corner being awarded to Liden the ball found an unmarked Liden player on the edge of the box who fired the ball into the back of the net once again.

Further changes and Chunk came on for a chance on the pitch, a knock on by Callum onto Danny who this time took the better option and crossed to Chunk who shot just wide, but then Chunk went in for the ball and fell awkwardly on his wrist which was damaged last week. Martin on to replace him got straight into the action and whilst Chunk was being attended too Danny found the back of the net again 3-3.

As time ticked on Liden were helped out by Bassett when a mix up in Defence saw them take the lead once again, with the final whistle looming and Liden now starting to tire, hard work at the best of times with no subs but to play with only six they done well, Bassett went looking for an equaliser – and this was found by the Man of the Match from last week Martin – a well taken goal to give us a well earned point.

Overall a good effort by all, however, the boys have to remember it is a team game, changes are made for the good of the team and touch line temper tantrums will not be tolerated. And fingers crossed for Manager Andy – who does his level 1 assessment today. It was good being back in the manager hot seat for the game, but Andy is welcome to it.

MOTM - JD

Credit: Maggie Amos
Last modified on Thursday 31st December 2020 at 16:22