04 May 2014 - North Bristol FDC (H)

After a long time without a fixture, it was good to see how quickly the lads got going in this game. On a firm pitch, it was somewhat easier to get the ball swiftly and accurately to each other and from the off Bassett looked to play the passing game that they are so good at. A long raking ball by Euan from left to right found Lewis C in space and an early chance was created almost immediately. Minutes later we opened the scoring with a well-worked goal started by Charlie who slid the ball to Callum who took a touch and then launched a delightful pass up the left to Tom who surged forward, took it beyond an on-rushing 'keeper and fired home for his first goal of the afternoon - 1:0

This was going to prove a tough afternoon, though, and a feisty Bristol side were soon launching attacks of their own and Zak, Ed, Josh and Dan had to be alert and strong. A corner was soon conceded by Bassett and an accurate delivery found a Bristol head to level the score at 1 - 1.

Sides are always vulnerable just after scoring, though, and so it proved, with a Callum pass cross-field finding Tom. His shot was blocked by the 'keeper and the rebound went straight to Jamie who quickly and skilfully lobbed it back over his head to grab the lead back immediately: 2 - 1

The match was now very much end-to-end and Bristol fashioned a couple more chances before an unlucky bounce in the penalty area found a Bassett hand and the ref pointed to the spot. Connor made a valiant effort to keep it out, but the ball went in off him into the net to level the score once again: 2 - 2

Amazingly, we nearly gave another instant reply but Callum's strong run and pass to Jamie only ended this time in an easy save for a grateful visiting 'keeper. We still looked likely to score, though, and started to play some lovely stuff, another chance falling to Tom who forced yet another excellent save from the busy Bristol stopper.

There was still time for more drama when Tom ran strongly down the left and a despairing defender had no choice but to bring him down in the area for the second penalty of the afternoon - this time to Bassett. Tom stepped up and slammed it home in off the post to put us in the lead once again: 3 - 2

Half-time: 3 - 2

Bristol started the second half strongly and an early shot straight at Connor was followed moments later with an opposition attack that led to him pulling off what must be the save of the season. At point blank range he managed to leap back and tip over a powerful shot that seemed destined to level the score again. The Bristol 'keeper wasn't to be outdone though and soon it was his turn to save well from both Tom and Jamie respectively.

Our opponents did score next , however, when a loose ball was lobbed high over Connor from way out and the scene was then set for a frantic last quarter. Tackles flew in all over the pitch as both sides attacked but, once again, it was tenacity from Tom that wrapped things up for Bassett. He took the ball down the right, rode a couple of tackles, and fired through the despairing gloves of our opposing 'keeper to grab the points : 4 - 3 The game ended soon after with a deserved victory chalked up and the end in sight of a successful season in the top flight from this talented and determined group of players.

Full time: 4 - 3

Man of the match: A three-way tie today, with Jamie, Zak and Dan all keeping their heads and playing football throughout what was sometimes a very difficult encounter.

Coach comment A win that ensured at least a top 4 finish where the boys tried to play football & if it wasn't for an inspired goalkeeping display we could've scored a lot more.The boys also once again had to learn the downside of grassroots football & they kept their heads & composure very well which we as coaches are very proud of.We all play sport to win but it's how you go about trying to achieve that which is very important & should never be forgotten.

Team: Callum Bridges, Euan Burke ,Jamie Byrom (capt.), Edward Fish, Lewis Cholod, Conor Chivers,Tom Miller, Daniel Hulse, George Staten, Josh Curtis, Zach Robinson, Charlie Emmerson, Lewis Griffin

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