Sunday 7th December 2008 - Ashton Keynes 'F' (H)

On a cold and frosty afternoon, Bassett took to field with confidence following their great victory of the previous week but they soon realized they were facing a stronger opposition and it was Ashton Keynes who had the early chances. Declan Cox, taking his turn in goal, was the busier of the goalies and Beckham had his work cut out to close down two strong Ashton Keynes attackers.

Bassett attacks were ably led by Declan Coffey who had a number of long range shots, any one of which would have been goal of the season had they gone in! Isaac battled hard alongside him and a number of powerful turns opened up several chances. George fought to find space up the right wing, but Bassett couldn't quite make an opening.

Ben was fiery and energetic, taking the ball to the opposition at every opportunity and Scott was really good in defence, making several crucial interceptions. Beckham put in another masterful performance alongside him, looking to build from the back whenever he could.

Nevertheless, it was a very even half, with both sides threatening without ever really looking as if they would score.

Half-time: 0 – 0

Ben now took the goalie's gloves and Declan Cox moved to his usual forward position and this seemed to fire up our team for a really outstanding second half. A number of early chances fell Bassett's way and the Ashton Keynes goalkeeper had to be at his best. Then a strong tackle from Becks in defence led to a free-kick which an opposition player fired goalwards. Ben made a great save and the ball was immediately sent out wide for Declan Coffey to take down the wing. He fired in a shot which broke past the goalie to Declan Cox who buried it into the open net: 1 – 0

This seemed to spur Bassett into action and the game soon became theirs. Matt doubled the lead by battling through a couple of players and slotting the ball past the AK goalie: 2 – 0

Then, shortly after, another strong run and cross from Declan Coffey George was able to grab his fifth goal of the season from acute angle after the goalie fumbled the ball: 3 – 0

The boys now really began to get into their stride and they threatened with every attack. Declan Coffey saw another glorious shot sail just over the bar and even Scott fired a strong shot goalwards which could easily have crept in. Ben grew in confidence in the Bassett goal and managed to frustrate the Keynes attackers when they made rare attacks.

A fourth goal was always likely, though, and it was James that snatched it, volleying the ball home confidently when it broke to him in the box: 4 – 0

As the whistle was blown, the cheers went up in celebration of a famous second half performance and another clean sheet. The team has now scored 9 goals in two games and conceded absolutely none despite having to use 4 rookie goalkeepers due to the continued lack of a regular man between the sticks. Another fine team performance with candidates for man of the match throughout the side.

Man of the match: The final vote went to Declan Coffey for his tremendous tracking back combined with strong forward runs and a number of splendid crosses. He was just unlucky that none of his four delightful lobs found the net!

Last modified on Monday 22nd June 2015 at 23:39