4th Team Vs Stafford 4

An enjoyable game played in fine spirit from the start to the finish whistle.

The teams were pretty well balanced and this showed in the first half with plenty of action in the middle of the pitch, but neither side really making much of an impact at either end of the pitch. However there were plenty of positives with solid performances at the back, some excellent distribution from the midfield, particularly from Andy Cooper senior, and good running up front.

The second half was a more open game all round with chances at both ends and both keepers feeling that they had got their match fees' worth. However, with about 12 minutes to go Stafford made the break through with a 3 on 2 situation, followed by a neat switch across the "D" for someone to slot home on the far post. If anything the goal came slightly against the run of play and the encouraging thing was that the team's collective spirit remained high and our prerssure continued. The reward was a penalty corner in the dying seconds of the game which Martin Jandu slotted home for a well deserved draw.

A good all round team performance with Andy Cooper Snr putting in an excellent performance in midfield , but by a whisker MOTM goes to Adam Aldersley for a superb defensive performance that belied his recent promotion from the badgers.

Cannock next week - 42 goals in 4 games... I think my lumbago is coming on as I type!!.....

Steve Rowlands