Eaton Bray Lions 3 Square Rangers 5
Saturday 3rd February
Square Rangers kept their fine form going with a performance that
typified the spirit and determination which is rapidly developing
within the squad. With only eleven players available, changes to
the line-up were forced with Tom moving to right back, Nathan given
a man marking role on the opposition’s striker and Harry given
the sweeper’s role.
The first half was very close with both teams looking to get the
ball forward at the earliest opportunity and this resulted in some
near misses for both teams before the home side opened the scoring.
Rangers hit back as Josh’s through ball was latched on by
Matt to beat the keeper, the play then opened up and credit to both
team’s defences and goalkeepers that no further goals were
added almost until half-time. With only a few minutes remaining
three of the Rangers defenders stopped to claim a throw-in, only
to see it not spotted and consequently as play moved on Ryan was
powerless to stop the close range shot to give the home side a 2-1
lead going into the break.
Clearly the players felt frustrated at half-time but instructions
were to feed their frustrations into a strong second half performance
- which they certainly did. Rangers immediately put the home side
under pressure and with Josh and Jack anchoring the midfield it
allowed Joe and Faheem to push further forward in a quest to put
Rangers back in the game. After a good few chances that were either
shot wide or saved by a very good Lions goalkeeper Rangers grabbed
that important equaliser scored by Joe. A second goal for Matt heading
home Josh’s near post corner was followed almost instantly
by an unfortunate own goal by Nathan to bring the scores level once
again. Rangers defence of Stewart, Tom, Nathan and Harry combined
well to break down the home side’s attacks and it was Rangers
who finished the stronger by adding two further goals scored by
Joe and Jake.
Players of the match:
Harry and Nathan
Summary:
Another excellent performance by the eleven Rangers players
and praise too to Eaton Bray Lions for serving up a thrilling and
exciting match. It was pleasing to see those players that were given
specific instructions - Nathan’s man marking role and Harry
playing sweeper, carry these out very, very well and fully deserving
their player of the match awards.
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