Square Rangers 2 Barton
Rovers B 1
Saturday 24th November
Square Rangers made it
four wins out of four in November but Barton Rovers B made them
work very hard for this win where perseverance finally paid off.
The very cold conditions and hard but firm pitch was certainly going
to be a factor, especially early on and to be fair both teams adjusted
to the conditions reasonably well. Another factor was how Square
Rangers were going to break down the opposition that defended in
such high numbers, this was clearly evident at corner kicks when
all eleven of the opposition’s team were based inside their
goal area. It might have come as a shock therefore when Rangers
did score from a Johnny Clarke corner neatly tucked away by Spencer
Park to put Rangers 1-0 up. Against a team that defend deep the
tendency is for the other team to push up and our defence found
that to their cost when a long ball caught our defenders napping
and the Barton Rovers B striker had the pace to run in on goal and
to equalise. The remainder of the half found square Rangers with
plenty of possession but unable to break down a solid looking defence.
Square Rangers have a tendency to get stronger as a game progresses
as was the case here, the team enjoyed long periods inside the Barton
Rovers B half, but all that was lacking was at times our usual quality
service to our front players and composure in front of goal as chances
were either rushed and spurned or blocked by a very committed defence.
At the back for Square Rangers Josh Skelcey was making his debut
and his pace made sure that any counter attacks by the visitors
were quickly nullified. As the match entered its final ten minutes
and both teams locked in an intriguing battle Square Rangers began
to open up the opponents defence with increasing pressure that brought
much by way of goalmouth action. Finally up stepped Peter Remon
to give Square Rangers that all important second goal finding the
back of the net with a shot that lifted over the keeper and just
under the crossbar. Square Rangers held out for the remaining few
minutes to keep up their impressive run of four straight league
wins.
Summary:
To be honest this was
not one of Square Rangers best performances however credit must
go here to Barton Rovers B who knocked us off our stride and made
it difficult for us to break them down. However, the team have played
excellent this season and lost so well done to all the players for
showing the character, perseverance and belief to get a result.
Player of the match:
Great energy and drive
from midfield - Spencer Park
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