Nelson Tigers 2 Hawkhurst Utd 1
With third place in the league secured and attention firmly fixed on Wednesday’s Robertsbridge Charity Cup tie, Grant and Paul took the opportunity to rest players and to give an outing to those who have been unlucky to find themselves on the fringe of the team this year. This meant starts for Marco and Lee in their favoured position as centre backs with Greg Daniel on the left and Dan Morley up front.
The Hawks started slowly against a Tigers team who knew that a win could help them avoid relegation; Hawks keeper Chandler made a good low save in the first minute of the game but after that possession was equal and the Hawks created the better chances of the half. Greg Daniel was foiled by a good save from the keeper and Dan Morley headed wide from close range, however he quickly made up for this by scoring from the penalty spot after he had been fouled.
With the withdrawal of the influential Matt Todd just after half time, the Hawks seemed to concede the midfield battle and the Tigers pushed forward looking for a way back into the game. They equalised when Marco, chasing back towards goal, tried to clear across his opponent and the ball ricocheted into the net.
Marco had a fine game as sweeper behind an equally solid Lee Colvin and with Tom and Harry (we need a Dick in the team!) tucking in well, the defence was sound throughout. Bobby Wiggins worked hard in midfield and the arrival of Kingy did give us an outlet but, despite some fantastic touches from Balders, we were unable to create any further chances. After a number of scrambles and saves, the game was finally settled late on as a good strike from the Tigers went in off the left hand post.
A fine effort by everyone and it was good to see (and hear!) a strong contingent who made the journey down to support the lads.
:lol:).
