Tuesday 21st April 2009 - Stratton Juniors 'B' (A)

A rare evening kick-off saw the team arriving at a sun-drenched and enormous pitch to do battle with a strong Stratton side. The early exchanges were fairly even and Isaac had an early scare in goal but Bassett soon found their feet and it wasn't long before we had our first chance which Jordan just slid wide. Coxy also narrowly missed and a series of corners tested the Stratton defence again and again. At the back, Scott and Harry showed once more how well they have developed as reliable defenders, cutting out attacks and looking for telling forward passes whenever they could. Declan Coffey was on fire as he scurried up the wing, tackling and passing to great effect. Isaac then made a superb save at the feet of an oncoming forward to prevent a goal from Stratton which would have been cruel on our lads.

Our passing was truly excellent, with the midfield in particular working several beautiful moves between them. Matt, now on at the back worked very hard and cut out a number of promising Stratton moves and James started to power through up front.

After a few further chances created by Bassett, Jordan finally scored – a superbly accurate strike from the edge of the area which left the keeper grasping at thin air: 1 – 0. A thoroughly deserved goal.

Half Time: 1 – 0

The second half began with a strong Stratton attack but it was Bassett who scored next. A corner from George wasn't cleared and a scramble in the box saw the ball fall to James who spun and shot to grab his second of the season: 2 – 0

Another great save from Isaac followed moments later but a bit of indecision in defence led to a chance for Stratton which they grabbed gratefully: 2 – 1

This could have made heads drop but Bassett were not to be put off their passing game and they continued to work some delightful chances. Jordan again shining in the middle of the park and George dancing up the wing to create chance after chance. Declan Coffey also impressed with his unflagging effort and eye for a pass.

Our third goal was a solo effort from George who took the ball in his own half, ghosted past several defenders and tucked the ball in with great skill: 3 – 1

Bailey, now on up front, battled hard and just missed with a couple of powerful shots but it was Stratton who scored next after another rare defensive error let an attacker in at the near post: 3 – 2

A frantic finish developed with an undeserved draw still a possibility for Stratton. Our defenders had to be at their best and even the midfield had to make telling clearances at times but there was no joy for the opposition.

There was time for two final moments of delightful football from Bassett when Jordan fired over and again when George rattled the crossbar.

Man of the match: George Staten gets the narrow nod for his non-stop action up the wing, pin-point corners, a goal-line clearance and a fine solo goal.

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