Matt Brown goal video Friar Lane & Epworth 1 Atherstone Town 0 – attendance 193 Atherstone’s run of 8 consecutive wins came to an end in the mud and sand at Friar Lane on Saturday with a 72nd minute wonder-strike by debutant Daniel Hodgkinson proving to be the difference between two well-matched sides. The heavily-sanded pitch passed an early morning inspection and presented both sides with an extra challenge of staying on their feet and although the Adders had triumphed in similar conditions against Stratford at Sheepy Road last week, it was Friar Lane who adapted quicker and took the initiative as they kicked down the slope in the first half. The home side belied the conditions with a first half display full of quick running and inventive passing with Lewis Gibbons on the left wing causing problems for the Adders defence and the forward pair of Phillips and Almond providing a constant threat. After a move down the right wing in the 14th minute, Phillips looked certain to score when the ball landed at his feet only 6 yards out but a moment’s hesitation allowed the combined efforts of Rich Williams and Chris Tullin to block his goal bound shot. Soon afterwards Friar Lane had strong claims for a penalty turned down after Leigh Everitt had challenged Almond in the area then Ashley Wells had to move smartly to clear a dangerous cross. After another good move down the left, Almond rounded the advancing Williams but shot into the side-netting from a narrow angle and at this stage it was all Friar Lane with the Adders struggling to impose themselves. A close range shot by Phiilips was deflected off Everitt and well saved at his near post by Rich Williams and from the resulting corner, a brief game of head tennis ensued which the Adders eventually cleared. Finally, with 30 minutes on the clock, the Adders managed to mount a meaningful attack when some good passing out on the right by Chris Tullin and Nathan Jones won Atherstone’s first corner of the game from which Jai Stanley had a shot blocked. Friar Lane were soon back on the attack though and when the ball fell to home skipper Danny Gibbons in the area, his curling shot was heading for the bottom corner before Rich Williams produce a fingertip save to get the ball past the post. Friar Lane continued to press but the Adders defence refused to buckle despite the pressure and the closest either side came to scoring in the remainder of the half came when some good passing by Stanley gave Jones the chance to curl in a cross from the right but Luke Barlone’s header, while beating the home keeper, went just the wrong side of the post. Somehow the half finished goalless but the large Atherstone travelling contingent took their interval refreshments grateful that their team were still level. Atherstone replaced Gareth Williams with Dom Reece at half time and came out looking more like a team at the top of the league as the game opened up and became an end-to-end affair for the majority of a closely-fought second half. Jai Stanley became more influential in midfield and for a time, Friar Lane, who had been on the front foot for most of the first half, were content to defend and try and catch Atherstone on the break. After Jones and Stanley had won possession in midfield, Jones had a shot deflected over and then Blowfield in the Friar Lane goal saved at Barlone’s feet as the Adders finally started to exert some pressure. Friar Lane replied with a long range shot from Almond which went just wide and then Danny Haynes had to be alert to clear another home attack before Atherstone failed to take advantage of the best chance of the game so far on 62 minutes. Jai Stanley sent Chris Tullin down the right from a free kick and Tullin’s cross from the by-line fell invitingly for Jae Martin but his side-footed right-foot effort from 10 yards spun just wide of the post with the keeper beaten. Martin then won a free kick on the edge of the area and after Stanley’s free kick was blocked by the wall, follow up efforts by Reece and Haynes were also blocked. Friar Lane continued to look dangerous on the break but the 2nd half had seen Atherstone come much more into the game so when the decisive moment came after 72 minutes, it almost had the feel of being against the run of play. Friar Lane won a seemingly routine throw-in on the left wing but Hodgkinson, after collecting the ball wide, cut in past 2 defenders and from the edge of the area, fired an unstoppable shot into the far corner past the diving Williams. In an effort to get back into the game, Atherstone manager Jimmy Ginelly then used his remaining 2 substitutions, replacing Barlone and Martin with Matt Brown and Danny Gaunt and Brown was soon in the game, firing in a shot which went just over and then receiving a through ball from Nathan Jones 10 yards out but the tricky conditions saw the Dordon rocket lose his footing just as he shot and the resulting effort was cleared. The last 10 minutes saw Atherstone throw the kitchen sink at the home side in search of a vital equaliser and a cross from the left by Reece caused confusion in the home defence but Matt Brown was denied at close range by the keeper and the rebound ricocheted off the advancing Zeke Tomlinson for a goal kick. It was Brown again who won a corner which was taken short and Danny Gaunt’s cross beat everybody and then from another corner, Danny Haynes’ header back across goal found Chris Tullin no more than 5 yards out with the goal at his mercy but his shot cannoned off the bar as if to confirm that, despite their much improved 2nd half effort, this would not be Atherstone’s day. The final whistle brought a sigh of relief from the home fans and now sees Atherstone travelling to Alvechurch next week needing to bounce back from this narrow defeat. In the meantime, 17 points behind the leaders but with 6 games in hand and other promotion-chasers Loughborough and Market Drayton still to play, Friar Lane will believe that they could still have a say in who finishes in the top 2, and, if they can cope with the number of games to play, they may not be that far way themselves. Teams. Friar Lane; Blowfield, Westley, Smith, Brett, D Gibbons, Hodgkinson, Plumb, Wright, Phillips, Almond, L Gibbons. Subs ; Connolly, Sharman, Stevenson, Morris. Adders - R Williams, Tullin, Haynes, Everitt, Wells, Stanley, Martin, Tomlinson, G Williams, Jones, Barlone. Subs ; Brown, D Gaunt, Beale, Reece. |
ATHERSTONE 4 - 3 Stratford
Stanley 2 (1 Pen)
Brown,
Gaunt
Attendance 197
Atherstone - Richard Williams, Chris Tullin, Gareth Williams, Danniel Haynes, Leigh Everitt (Captain), Ashley Wells, Ezekiel Tomlinson, Jai Stanley, Nathan Jones (Mathew Brown), Luke Barlone, Jae Martin (Danny Gaunt) Subs (Unused) Curtis Thomas, Richard Clark
Stratford - James Dormand, Richard Munday, Harry Donaghey, Jack Byrne, Ashley Pringle, John Snare (Captain), Paddy Connolly, Mark Faulds, Gary Mcphee, Natham Lamey, Jamie Petty, Subs - Jerome Grandison, Lawrence Rawlings, Adam Overtun, Nicholas Oakley, Michael Crawford
Atherstone kept with the same eleven that ran out winners at home to Barwell on tuesday night, Curtis Thomas and Richard Clark were on the bench next to Danny Gaunt and Mathew Brown. The game went ahead only down to the hard work in the morning from Stuart Stretton, Rich Randell and some other regular Atherstone fams who pumped and swept lying water on the pitch from the previous days downfall.
Atherstone for the first time in weeks came up against a side that looked decent, Stratford looked good and had speed moved the ball a round well, Stratford went a head through a Nathan Lamey goal after the ball had been crossed to him from the right wing. But it wasn't long before the towm drew back level when Luke Barlone raced clear into the stratford area, he tried to round Dormand in the Stratford goal. Jai Stanley slotted home the resulting penalty.
The second haldf started with Stratford going ahead when seemingly the Atherstone backline seemed to stop for what looked to be an offside, Gary Mcphee put Stratford two up then the Adders looked dead and buried when Stratford went further ahead through defender Richard Mundays strike.
But the Town showed some true grit and determination and clawed themselfs back into the game with Mathew Brown having slipped the Stratford defence then rounded Dormand in the stratfod goal to breathe new life into the game. Jai Stanley then slotted home to draw Town the in the last few minutes won the game with a danny gaunt goal.
Atherstone Town 4 -0 Studley
Barlone 55,
Brown 87,
Gaunt 88,
Jones 90,
Attendance 159
Team
Richard Williams
Chris Tullin
Dominic Reece
Danny Haines
Leigh Everitt
Ash Wells
Zekiel Tomlinson
Jai Stanley
Nathan Jones
Luke Barlone
Jae Martin
Subs
Danniel Gaunt
Mathew Gaunt
Gareth Williams
Atherstone entered today's game looking to start the new year off where they ended the previous year. The eleven that have started the last three games for the Adders remained in the line up for todays game having scored over twenty goalsin four games.
Studley were the brighter of the two teams in the first twenty minutes of the game. Ian Mitchell had a chance early on for the vistors, but his free kick was easily claimed By Richard Williams, Craig Poutney came close then Poutney had a header go wide, Studley had the early edge, the first real chance for the Town came when Jai Stanley saw a corner cleared by Studley's defence.
Jai Stanley saw a free kick go over the bar, Craig Poutney saw another shot saved by williams. Dominic Reece put in a cross to Wells on the back post, the midfielder headed back across the six yard box to Jones, Jones tried to make contact but was beaten by a Studley defence. A better second half was needed with the first half being as dull as dishwater.
A second started with the Adders loking brighter and they took the lead through that man Luke Barlone scoring his seventh goal in four games. Studley made two changes bringing on Styles and Naylor, Brown replaced Barlone and an injection of speed was put into the game, Gaunt would replace Jae Martin as Williams would replace Wells with ten minutes to go. A final four minutes with three goals would begin, Matty Brown raced clear in midfield with cries of Run Browny, Run, the lightning forward raced towards the Studley goal, he linked well with Gareth Williams making his 28th appearance as sub, Williams squared to Brown who danced around ta defender and put his shot past Lee Ross.
Then Nuneaton's finest winger Danniel Gaunt sped at the studley defence like Lewis Hamilton in his Mclaren, no dodgy handling and turning for the wing wizard as he linked up with Jones on the edge of the area, the pint sized pocket rocket unleashed a shot into the studley goal, then in the final minute Nathan Jones scored ahis tenth goal of the season and to keep the pressure on Loughborough's Kris Nurse.
Atherstone Town 4 - 0 Racing Club Warwick
Jones 6,
Barlone 28,
Martin 68,
Wells 89,
Attendance - 149
Adders - Richard Williams, Tullin, Reece, Haines, Everitt (Capt), Wells, Tomlinson, Stanley, Jones (Gaunt), Barlone (Brown), Martin (Gareth Williams), Sub (unused) Beale
Warwick- Handley, Jones, McGrath, Hutchcox, Bailey, Holtmon, Plant, Glynn, Stacey (Gardener), Blair (Sammons), Howell, Sub (Unused) Carpenter
Atherstone Town entered saturdays Midland Alliance Division encounter on the back of three wins. Manager Jimmy Ginnelly was in confident mood that his side would gain all three points and end the year on winning form, with no injury worries Ginnelly named an unchanged team for the third consecutive game, with Stefan Beale being named on the subsdetute's bench.
Warwick traveled across the county on the back of a a superb home victory against Stratford Town on Boxing day. Mathew Blair who has scored in four of Warwick's last eight games lined up front with Neil Stacey who had scored in that victory against Stratford.
Warwick started the game well, not looking like a team in their current low league position, and Warwick had the first shot of any sorts, latching onto a through ball, but it would be the Adders who would go ahead through Nathan Jones after six minutes. The busy forward gained pocession on the edge of the Warwick eighteen yard box, as the centre forward danced his way into the area, he lost his marker and placed a crisp shot past Handley in the Warwick goal., Jai Stanley then saw a free kick headed wide by Jae Martin.
Warwick then had a chance, Michael Glynn looking impressive in the midfield engine room of Warwick played in Mattt Blair, the Forward put his left pass to Neil Stacey, who couldn't seem to get hold of the ball, his shot saved easily by Rich Williams. Glynn for Warwick then saw his free kick into the capable arms of Williams in the Adders goal. Barlone played in Jones who narrowly missed.. Warwick seemed to be controlling the midfield and Ross Holtmon took the ball of Jai Stanley in the centre of the park and as the midfielder made his way towards the Atherstone area it took a touch and clerance by Rich Williams to clear, a golden chance for Warwick.
Michael Glynn then had a shoty on the edge of the Adders eighteen yard area saved by Williams, Matt blair then latched onto the loose ball, Blair saw his shot again saved, Tullin got hold of the ball to clear. Warwick were getting forward and lookes as though there was something in the game for them untio Barlone scored his sixth in three games on twenty-eight minutes. from Eight yards out. Holtmom then came close for Warwick, before Barlone hit a post for the Adders.
No changes icame at Half time. Matt Blair had the first shot for Warwick after fifty-five minutes after a dour opening nine minutes, Jai Stanley saw a free kicjk long down the right to Chris Tullin the defender tried to play a ball into the area, but Warwick managed to clear his efforts.. But on sixty-eight minutes Atherstone went further ahead through a Jae Martin Goal, Jae Martin was played in by the hard working Nathan Jones, the midfielder scored for his third goal in four games after his move from Stratford.
Matt Brown replaced Luke Barlone with twenty minutes to go. The Adders then had a penalty turned away after Brown''s shirt was pulled in the area., Jai Martin next saw a header saved after Dominic Reece crosed into the araea. Matt Brown had a golden chance but his shot went well wide. Jae Martin would be replaced By Gareth Williams making his twebnty-seventh sub appearance of the season and Danny Gaunt would then replace Nathan Jones late on, The Adders would seal their fourth on eighty-nine minutes when Ashley Wells, unmarked on the edge of the Warwick area played a crisp shot goalbound, his hot took a slight deflection on the way in for the Adders fourth of the day.
ADDERS 0 - 0 BURTON ALBION
see this link for the Burton Mail match report :-
Burton Mail Match Report
WESTFIELD 0 - 1 ATHERSTONE TOWN
(Attendance 84)
Adders made their longest journey of the season to Hereford on Saturday and produced a gritty performance to come away with all 3 points.
Adders were forced to making one change from the team that won at Tipton. Gareth Williams came in for the missing Ashley Wells. It is reported that Ashley has joined Steve Hinks at Shepshed. The game was played on what could at best be described as a half decent parks pitch in very windy conditions.
Westfield kicked off with the wind in their favour. A long ball out of defence on 3 minutes nearly let in Dunkley. Then on 5 minutes, Westfield had there first chance when a ball played into the Adders box found an attacker free who fortunately shot wide. Jones went close on 17 minutes when he cleverly created space on the left side of the penalty area before being crowded out. Danny Haynes was then replaced on 25 minutes by Matt Brown having had a knock on the ankle. Westfield continued to take the game to Atherstone but rarely threatened Richard Williams in goal. As the half came to a close the Westfield No. 7 was booked for a bad challenge on Scott Clamp.
First half ended 0-0 with the Atherstone defence in outstanding form.
Dunkley headed wide on 55 minutes following a cross from the half way line into the box. Manager Ginnelly then made an inspired substitution bringing on Luke Barlone for Gareth Williams. This seemed to give the Atherstone forward line far more penetration and for the first time in the match cause the Westfield defence problems. Matt Brown shooting over the bar on 65 minutes. Then on 70 minutes Barlone cut in from the right to shoot left footed straight at the keeper. Barlone was not to be denied though and on 75 minutes got his reward. After good approach work down the left Jones' cross found Barlone on the edge of the box who controlled and turned the ball onto his left foot firing a splendid shot hard and low into the bottom left hand corner of the net. Almost straight away Tomlinson had a fine shot well saved by the Westfield keeper. Matt Brown was then booked on 77 minutes following a mistimed challenge.
Despite heavy Westfield pressure in the last 10 minutes when they forced half a dozen corners the Adders defence held firm.
Overall, a truly gritty performance on a very windy afternoon with Everitt and Salmon outstanding at the heart of the Adders defence.
In the last 4 games all won by the Adders they have only conceded one goal and that being a penalty. This coupled with a solid midfield and three quality forwards all bears well for the remainder of the season.
Adders now up to 2nd position in the league and next Saturday at home to Shifnall please come along. Your support is so important.
TIPTON TOWN 0 - 2 ATHERSTONE TOWN
(Attendance 103)
Adders made one change from the side that beat Alvechurch the previous Saturday with new signing Steve Salmon coming in for the injured Craig Civzelis. Salmon slotting in alongside Leigh Everitt at the back with Danny Haynes moving into midfield.
Tipton started the game very brightly considering they had lost there previous four games on the bounce without scoring a goal.
On 3 minutes from a free kick against Everitt, a ball to the far post found Calum Martin whose shot cannoned off his own player. Then on 6 minutes poor marking in the Adders penalty area forced Williams to make a good save from Martin beating his shot away for a corner. From the resulting corner kick Williams made a superb save tipping over the bar a goal bound header from Campbell.
It was now one way traffic with Tipton creating havoc down the Adders left hand side. Adders had an amazing escape on 12 minutes when following yet another cross in from the left by Langford, Chris Tullin thumped an attempted clearance against the inside of his own post and from the rebound Williams saved brilliantly from Martin.
There was then a lengthy delay when Haynes went down injured. Tipton again went close on 16 minutes following a cross from the right, Martin shot just wide. Very little had been seen of the Adders front line up to this point but following a break down the left by Jones, Dunkley met his cross at the far post hitting his shot into the ground. Immediately after Haynes sent Dunkley away with just the keeper to beat but Cox saved with his legs. From the resulting corner kick Atherstone took the lead when Dunkley scored with a speculative overhead kick.
The goal coming on 22 minutes was totally against the run of play. Tipton came roaring straight back at the Adders with once again Williams saving them, tipping Martin's chip shot round the post on 30 minutes. Adders then produced a fine move when Wells fed Dunkley who played Jones in down the right, he beat the full back got to the bye line and crossed dangerously into the area.
Then again Tipton, Langford, firing just wide and once again Williams saving from the dangerous Langford. As the first half drew to a close the Adders did start to enjoy more possession with Jones and Dunkley both causing the Tipton defence problems.
Adders came out for the second half and nearly made it 2-0 when a long ball out of defence found Wells sprinting through on goal, toe poking the ball just wide of the onrushing keeper. Minutes later Dunkley flicked on a header finding Jones just offside. Then following a spell of pressure by Tipton, Clamp came to the rescue by clearing the danger in his own penalty area.
On 65 minutes Jones fired well over the bar after working himself an opening. Adders suffered a blow soon after having debutante Salmon stretchered off with a suspected fractured eye-socket. Garath Williams replaced him with Haynes switching into the back four.
Nathan Jones then made sure the Adders took all the points back to Sheepy Road by unleashing a great shot into the roof of Tipton's net.
All in all a great result for the Adders albeit winning it ugly.
Adders now up to 4th position and what a set of fixtures next week when all the top six play each other. Man of the match was Richard Williams.
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30/10/07 ATHERSTONE TOWN 3 - 1 ALVECHURCH
(Attendance 147)
The Adders welcomed back Craig Civzelis to their line up in place of Cameron Stuart who dropped to the substitutes bench. This was the only change from the side that went disappointingly out of the league cup at Coalville on Tuesday night.
Alvechurch were the first to threaten with a shot from Rostill that was saved low down at the near post by Richard Williams on 5 minutes. Adders then cam desperately close to taking the lead on 7 minutes when a long throw in taken by Ashley Wells was flicked on by Civzelis who found Nathan Jones who wriggled free inside the box and chipped a delightful shot over the Alvechurch keeper, the ball striking the inside of the far post before being hacked clear.
Alvechurch then broke down the other end but Williams was well positioned to see easily from the No. 11. It was the Adders again who went closest when a long throw into the box by Wells fell to Scott Clamp whose shot was deflected wide for a corner.
Then on 15 minutes Adders went close again with Wells hitting his shot just wide. The home team were now well on top with further efforts from Tomlinson and Dunkley failing to hit the target. Dunkley then found Wells with a neat ball down the right who cut the ball back from the bye-line to Civzelis whose shot was deflected wide.
Alvechurch nearly took a shock lead when Williams miss kicked a through ball but the excellent Chris Tullin cleared the danger, Dunkley then caused problems with a fine back heal into the path of Wells whose effort was saved by the keeper.
Then as so often happens in football after missing so many chances Alvechurch took the lead. A trip by Everitt in the penalty area lead to McWilliam scoring from the spot to put the visitors 1-0 up. Adders poured forward after this setback and Wells again caused trouble down the right crossing for Dunkley who failed to connect properly.
A good interchange fo play by Jones and Tomlinson ended with Jones' shot being smothered by the keeper. the half-time whistle blew and how the Adders went in 0-1 down was hard to believe.
At the beginning of the second half Danny Gaunt was introduced for the injured Craig Civzelis and what an introduction. In the 46th minute following a mix up in the Alvechurch defence a defender gave the ball straight to Danny Gaunt who scored with an easy goal to make it 1-1. This was following good work by Jones down the left.
By now the Adders sensed a victory was there for the taking and a corner taken by Jones was headed over by Clamp. On 50 minutes a lovely worked goal, Gaunt into Jones, laid off into Dunkley, back into Gaunt who curled his shot into the corner of the Alvechurch net. 2-1 to the Adders.
Atherstone were now well on top and it was 3-1 on 62 minutes when a cross by Wells was looped to the far post where Tomlinson forced the ball over the line. Sanghia then went on for Alvechurch with Ferran making way as the visitors tried to come back into the game. The right winger for Alvechurch was then booked for a nasty challenge on Reece. Atherstone nearly scored again on 70 minutes when Jones latched onto a defensive header but the keeper came to the rescue. Luke Barlone then came on for Nathan Jones on 71 minutes and Roy Dunkley was taken off and replaced by Garath Williams on 85 minutes.
Try as they might to get back into the game Alvechurch were kept at bay by Haynes, Everitt and Co and Atherstone ran out convincing 3-1 winners.
Overall an excellent display by the Adders with some impressive link up play between Nathan Jones and Roy Dunkley arguably the best display of the season.
So Atherstone Town up to 5th position and the next test being Tipton away next Saturday, 3rd November 2007.
23 October 2007 COALVILLE TOWN 2 - 1 ATHERSTONE TOWN
Atherstone made one change from the side that won away at Boldmere on Saturday with Ashley Wells coming in for the unavailable Craig Civzelis.
Adders started with a 4.4.2 formation but it was Coalville who started the brighter and who had a goal disallowed for offside on 10 minutes. The game was only 15 minutes old when Coalville took the lead when following a poor defensive header from Cameron Stuart the ball was played out wide on Adders left and then crossed into the penalty area where Gordan scored at the near post.
Coalville continued to dominate the first half and Jermaine Gordan, the big forward for Coalville caused panic in the Adders ranks whenever the ball came to him. As the game wore on Adders did come more into the game but finished the first half trailing 1-0 and having 3 men booked, Dunckley, Clamp and Jones.
The second half started with Garath Williams coming on for Cameron Stuart and reverting to a 3.5.2 formation. Adders started stronger and were unfortunate when a corner to the far post was headed off the line by a Coalville defender.
Then Nathan Jones headed against the upright following a cross by Roy Dunckley on 60 minutes. The game then saw Adders down to 10 men when Dominic Reece received a straight red card for a two footed challenge.
Barlone then went on for Tomlinson on 70 minutes and Francis on for Dunckley on 80 minutes as Adders searched for an equaliser. However, it was Gordan again who ran through unchallenged on 82 minutes who put Coalville 2-0 up.
Garath Williams was then booked for the Adders on 89 minutes before Ashley Wells netted a consolation goal in the final minute.
All in all a disappointing night for the Adders who seemed to lack the commitment and desire that was shown by Coalville.
So Adders slipped out of the league cup finishing with 10 men and 4 bookings.
It is back to league action on Saturday when Alvechurch are the visitors to Sheepy Road but Adders must do a lot better than was shown tonight.
OADBY TOWN 2 2 ATHERSTONE TOWN
Adders started the game very brightly and dominated the first 20 mins and were rewarded when the excellent nathan jones who looked offside sprang clear of the static oadby defence to finish cooley against the onrushing keeper.
Adders were dealt a blow when danny haynes had to be substituted having sustained an ankle injury.
Danny was replaced by new signing karl fellows.
This seemed to unsettle the team as we were also without the suspended leigh everitt.
Oadby then equalised soon after our goal when a cross to the far post was headed back across the goalmouth and an oadby player headed in an easy goal.
this seemed to regalvanise the opposition and the remainder of the half was pretty even.
It does seem evident this season though that the adders do struggle against free kicks and corners when the ball is crossed in the air.
The second half began with cameron stuart coming on for curtis thomas but it was oadby who looked the stronger side and it was no surprise when they took the lead.
At this stage it looked as though we were heading for a defeat but credit to the players who showed there spirit and desire and were rewarded when chris tullin headed in the equaliser after there keeper had made a fine save.
Luke barlone then came on for the tiring Delton francis as the adders strived to find a winner but had to settle for a hard earned point.
So 1 point gained or 2 lost whatever way you look at it.
Plus points another impressive display from ashley wells who always gives 100% and gets forward down the right at every oppurtunity.
Chris tullin who held the defence together after suffering the losses of everitt and haynes and also Nathan jones who capped another impressive display up front notching a goal.
Nathans performances over the last 4 games have been impressive and if he can match his overall play and improve his finishing we wont go far wrong.
thanks to all the adders supporters who attended your support is so much appreciated you dont realise how much.
Up the adders heres to the future.
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Saturday 1st September
Millers Bow Out of Cup: New Mills 1 - Atherstone 3
FA Cup Preliminary Round.
New Mills went crashing out of the FA Cup at Church Lane on Saturday against a good Atherstone Town outfit.
However, it was not the usual Millers performance and at times they seemed to struggle to get their rhythm.
It was the Warwickshire side that started the brighter and hit the woodwork in the opening minutes. They took the lead on 9 minutes when a fairly innocuous ball was played into their area and Roy Dunkley pounced to open his account for the afternoon.
Dunkley scored 75 goals in the last two seasons and he was to prove the main difference between the two clubs. New Mills tried in vain to get back on level terms during the rest of the half.
However, 10 minutes after the restart they did score. A long throw in was well headed across goal by Rhys Nevins and there was Stuart McGill to nod home from close range.
The game was all set up then for a storming Millers finale, and they began to press. A badly worked short corner was their ultimate undoing as possession was given away and the visitors swept up field and Dunkley notched his second goal.
Garry Kharas covered by Town's Ezekiel Tomlinson and skipper Leigh Everitt
New Mills once again tried to draw level and a Kharas shot hit the defenders arm and went out for a corner – the referee saw it otherwise and he awarded a goal kick. Once again Town moved the ball forward and that man Dunkley completed a fine treble.
In truth the real difference was his finishing, but Atherstone looked a competent side and they just about deserved to win the game. Several of the New Mills team did not look their usual selves, but credit to the opposition who defended resolutely all afternoon.
The consolation for the Millers was a best gate of the season of 234, and they will be hoping that the Millers can bounce back from this, their first loss of the current season.
Report courtesy of New Mills AFC website
Mickey Ryan goes in high above Town's #6 Ashley Wells
Garry Kharas closely marked by Ezekiel Tomlinson
Westfields 3 - 2 Atherstone Town
Phil Goode Reporting From Westfields
On a sunny but very windy afternoon in Hereford. Westfields and Atherstone contrived to serve up a match full of incident and contrasting fortunes.
The crowd had barely settled at the start of the game wheb Atherstone, playing with the strong wind, scored direct from the Kick Off. The goal apparently timed at seven seconds, which may be a league record, was thumped home by Chris Partridge, running onto a through ball. Atherstone dominated early on and it was no surprise when they scored again on seven minutes, direct from a corner taken by Cameron Stuart.
Shortly afterwards Partridge, put through again, beat the keeper with a left foot shot, but the forwards shot bounced away of the post. Westfields started to come into the game as the half wore on, and following a good passing move they scored on thirty-one minutes.
There had all ready been some incidents and bookings when right on half time Westfields Scott Jackson was sent off following a scramble in the home penalty area for stamping on Jamie Hood.
The second half saw a complete change of fortunes as Westfields down to ten men and with the wind at their backs began to dominate a lacklustre Atherstone side. However eighteen minutes in a Roy Dunkley overhead kick beat the keeper but also just went wide, then a Craig Civzellis shot went just over the bar on twenty minutes. Westfields replied immediately and hit the bar with a good effort.
Despite not having much of the play, Atherstone were unlucky when a goalbound shot from Roy Dunkley on the six yard line was inadvertently blocked by a defender on the half hour. Westfields continued to press and got their reward on thirty-three minutes when they converted a penalty awarded for hand ball by Leigh Everitt, who was booked. Richard Williams and Alex Hunt were both then booked for a scuffle, immediately after the penalty was scored.
Atherstone then brought on Michael Swann for Chris Partridge, and Danny Gaunt for Stefan Beale in the final ten minutes, but to no avail.
As Westfields pressed for a winner a chip beat Richard Williams on eighty-eight minutes but luckily for the Adders the ball went just wide of the post. However, in injury time a similar move saw substitute Chris Jefferson chip over Richard Williams and into the net.
In a match of incident Westfields had players booked and one sent off.Atherstone also received a total of seven bookings. this defeat leaves Atherstone in ninth place in the table
Atherstone Town 1:1 Quorn
Midland Football Alliance
Report by Marc Evans @ Sheepy Road
The Adders and Quorn have both had similar campaigns in the Midland Alliance this season. Both clubs made promising starts but have struggled to maintain their early season form in the New Year.
The Adders started the game in 8th position with Quorn a place and a point behind in 9th. Both sides were looking for a win that would kick-start their season and push them back into contention for a position in the leagues top three and a possible promotion at the end of the season.
Roy Dunkley returned to the attack for the Adders following his loan spell with Pilkington XXX. Matt Brown also started the game along with Craig Civzelis, who was returning after a broken foot, and Chris Long, who is continuing his return to fitness following his long lay-off.
The game started slowly with both sides reverting to the long ball to try and break their opponents down with very little success. However it was from a long ball that the Adders opened the scoring on 11 minutes. The Adders were awarded a free-kick just inside their own half which Jamie Hood launched forward into the Quorn penalty area, Quorn keeper Daniel Haystead came out and plucked the ball out of the air only to drop it at the feet of Chris Partridge who poked the ball into the unguarded net.
Cameron Stuart was next to test Haystead as he curled a right wing free-kick into the goalkeepers near post but this time Haystead made a much more convincing take and held the ball well.
Stuart was involved again on 26 minutes when he played a quick one two with Matt Brown on the edge of the area and burst through only to blaze a left footed effort over the crossbar.
Quorn’s first real effort of note came just after the half hour when a cross from the left wing was met by Rory Squire but he couldn’t get any power behind his header which sailed harmlessly wide of the post.
Squire was involved in Quorn’s next attack as he cut in from the right by-line and laid the ball off to Ryan North who was denied a shooting opportunity by Danny Haynes who made a perfect last ditch challenge to clear the ball behind for a corner. Paul White took the corner kick and found Vijay Singh unmarked 8 yards from goal but he sent his header high over the bar.
With the first half almost at an end Quorn were twice denied an equaliser by Richard Williams who produced two superb saves. First Jamie Clarke burst down the right for Quorn and squared for strike partner Singh who met the ball with a ferocious volley only for Williams to palm the ball away. The ball wasn’t properly cleared and a deep cross came in from the left which found Clarke in space at the far post, he tried to volley the ball across the face of goal but again Williams parried the ball away at full stretch and this time Jamie Hood completed the clearance by whacking the ball up field.
Quorn started the second half brightly and almost took the lead straight from the restart. The ball was played out onto the right wing to Rory Squire who whipped a cross in to the near post which was heading towards the top corner until Richard Williams turned it over the bar for a corner.
A couple of minutes later the Adders were denied a second goal by the woodwork as Cameron Stuart drove a corner in to the near post which bounced behind off the upright.
Quorn were next to threaten through Adam Layfield who picked up a loose ball on the left wing and advanced on goal only to fire well over from just inside the penalty area.
With an hour gone the Adders made their first change of the game with Michael Swann coming on to replace Stefan Beale.
On 65 minutes Roy Dunkley was close to sealing the victory for the Adders with his first meaningful contribution. The referee played a good advantage in the midfield following a foul on Danny Haynes which allowed Michael Swann to cross the ball from the left to Dunkley who was in space at the far post and he powered a header towards goal only for Haystead to get his fingertips to the ball and tip it over the bar.
Minutes later Dunkley had another opportunity as the Adders broke quickly with Chris Partridge down the left, he squared the ball to Dunkley who had players up in support but elected to try his luck from 25 yards and saw the ball sail over the bar.
Craig Civzelis was taken off with 70 minutes gone and replaced by Richard Palmer.
With 76 minutes on the clock Quorn scored an equaliser they had been threatening for some time. They launched a long ball forward looking for substitute Francino Francis who won the initial header and sent the ball into the air, Cameron Stuart was underneath it but sliced his clearance and Francis was the quickest to react as he unleashed a superb volley which crashed into the top corner of Richard Williams’ goal. It was one of the best goals seen at Sheepy Road in a long time and stunned the home support into silence.
With 10 minutes left Roy Dunkley left the field to be replaced by Mark Williams.
Quorn were pushing hard in search of the victory. Squire on the right was continuing to be a threat and on 83 minutes he crossed from the right to Singh who volleyed the ball towards goal but his effort was not strong enough to beat Williams.
Next to try his luck for Quorn was Gavin O’Toole who burst through the Adders midfield but scuffed his shot which ended up going well wide of the goal.
In the 92nd minute Francis looked like he might have clinched the win for Quorn as he headed a Squire cross towards the top corner of the Adders goal only for Williams to again pull off an outstanding save as he turned the ball over the bar.
In the end the Adders had to be happy to settle for a point although had it not been for Richard Williams they could easily have ended the night with nothing. The draw does neither side any favours in the league with the Adders falling further behind the leading clubs while Quorn dropped down a position in the league to 10th. Next up for the Adders is the long trip to Westfields. At this stage in the season nothing less than three points will do for Jimmy Ginnelly’s side if they are to make a late push for promotion.
Team;
Richard Williams, Chris Long, Cameron Stuart, Jamie Hood, Leigh Everitt, Stefan Beale (Michael Swann) Matt Brown, Danny Haynes, Chris Partridge, Roy Dunkley (Mark Williams) Craig Civzelis (Richard Palmer).
Atherstone Town 2:1 Loughborough Dynamo
MFA League Cup Quarter Final
The Adders booked their place in the MFA League Cup semi-finals courtesy of a hard fought victory against Loughborough Dynamo.
Much of the pre-match build up had focused on the state of the Sheepy Road playing surface. Monday nights youth team game had been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch with huge pools of water covering one goalmouth but a combination of two sunny days and some fine work from the groundstaff were enough to ensure the game would go ahead.
The Adders welcomed Chris Long back into the side after his long injury lay-off while Jamie Hood made his debut at centre half. Danny Gaunt also returned on the left of midfield while Tom Browett was handed a start in midfield.
In the early stages it was Loughborough who looked the more threatening as they had the majority of possession and forced a string of early corners. The main threats for them were beanpole striker Rob Edmans and powerful centre back Ricky Nurse however the Adders defended well against Dynamo's aerial threat with Jamie Hood looking particularly impressive at the heart of the defence.
Loughborough would be made to pay for not making their early dominance count after twenty minutes. The Adders won a free kick on the right wing which Cameron Stuart whipped in left footed onto the head of Chris Partridge who flicked the ball over Martin Taylor in the Loughborough goal and into the net.
The goal settled the Adders nerves and they very nearly had a second just minutes later. Stuart was again the provider as he sent a tantalising cross to the near post and Partridge once again rose well but could only head the ball over the bar.
Loughborough continued to press but were unable to make any clear cut chances against a strong Atherstone rearguard.
Just after the half hour Ashley Wells tried his luck from 35 yards. A Cameron Stuart cross was headed away by a Loughborough defender and Wells took a touch before firing a shot in which went just wide of the goal with keeper Taylor beaten.
With 38 minutes on the clock Cameron Stuart once again showed his threat from set peices as he whipped another superb cross across the face of goal. Chris Partridge was inches away from applying a finishing touch but he couldn't reach the ball. Tom Browett was able to retrieve it on the right edge of the penalty area and whipped the ball back across goal and Jamie Hood rose highest to head the ball just wide of the far post.
With half time drawing near Loughborough finally managed to convert their possession into chances. First Tom Breward came surging forward from defence and struck a low shot from fully 40 yards which was comfortably gathered by Richard Williams. Then two minutes later a high, hanging cross from Jake Betts was met by Rob Edmans who headed the ball over the advancing Richard Williams but just wide of the goal.
The half time whistle came at just the right time for the Adders as Loughborough had begun to pose more of a threat.
The second half began slowly with both sides struggling to adapt to the worsening conditions. Heavy rain was now falling on the already heavy pitch and the players were finding it increasingly difficult to play. Loughborough created the first opportunity of the half as Alan Ward cut in from the right and unleashed a powerful left foot shot which arrowed towards the bottom corner of the Adders net only for Richard Williams to produce an outstanding save to turn the ball round the post at full stretch.
Adders manager Jimmy Ginnelly made his first change of the night as Josh McKenzie came on in place of goalscorer Chris Partridge.
Loughborough continued to put the pressure on the Adders and on 72 minutes they went close as a long free-kick was brought down by Edmans who laid the ball off to Kris Nurse who took one touch and tried to poke the ball home but Richard Williams was equal to the effort.
The Adders made two further substitutions. First Danny Gaunt was replaced by Mark Williams who was making his return after suffering a broken jaw, and then Tom Browett was replaced by Richard Palmer.
With Loughborough pushing for an equaliser they suddenly found themselves two goals down in bizarre circumstances. Loughborough had a throw in on their left which Ricky Nurse threw back to keeper Martin Taylor. Taylor's first touch allowed the ball to run away from him and Duncan Willetts nipped in to roll the ball into the empty net.
Loughborough now needed a goal more than ever and began to push more men forward as they looked for a way back into the game. Within seconds of the restart Adam Slater found himself in space on the edge of the Adders penalty area and he fired in a low drive which again drew a fine save from Williams in the Adders goal.
With Loughborough throwing caution to the wind the Adders were getting more opportunities to hit them on the break and they seemingly had the tie wrapped up on 82 minutes. Mark Williams made a great run down the left wing and cut the ball back for Michael Swann. He smashed the ball goalwards only for Taylor to parry the ball clear, Josh McKenzie reacted quickest to force the ball home but his joy was short lived as the assistant had his flag up and the goal was chalked off.
The Adders were dealing with everything that Loughborough were throwing at them. Jamie Hood and Leigh Everitt were dominant at the back and Richard Williams was in fine form. With 85 minutes gone the Adders again had a great chance to kill the game off. A long punt upfield found Duncan Willetts who was one on one with Taylor. He nudged the ball past the Loughborough custodian and attempted to pick it up on the other side of him but the ball got stuck in the mud and Taylor was able to pounce on the ball keep the game alive.
With the 90 minutes up Loughborough did manage to pull a goal back. Rob Edmans worked himself some space on the right and drove a low cross to the far post where substitute Adam Barraden volleyed the ball past Williams to half the Loughborough defecit.
The Adders managed to see out the remaining four minutes of stoppage time and held on to book their place in the semi-finals of the competition against Leamington. The semi's will be played over two legs with the first at the New Windmill before the crucial second leg at Sheepy Road. This weekend the Adders are in league action at Oldbury United. For more information visit www.theadders.com
Team;
Richard Williams, Chris Long, Cameron Stuart, Jamie Hood, Leigh Everitt, Michael Swann, Danny Gaunt (Mark Williams) Tom Browett (Richard Palmer) Chris Partridge (Josh McKenzie) Duncan Willetts, Ashley Wells.
Romulus 1 - 1 Adders 12/02/07 Coles Lane, Sutton Coldfield
Sorry for the delayed and slightly brief report. It shows how much we rely on ace reporters Marc and Steve for the usual reports.
Adders started the game very brightly and were attacking the Romulus goal straight from the off. However the game was to take
a significant turn in the early minutes when Rich Williams jumped to catch a high ball in the Adders box and was challenged in mid air
by the Romulus player Leon Mitchell. To the watching Adders fans it looked a rash challenge but the ref deemed it only worthy of a
drop ball after lengthy treatment to both players. Rich bravely continued but after a few minutes it was clear he was in considerable
pain and withdrew from the game to be taken to hospital. Stefan Beale stepped up to fill the vacant goalkeeper's role and Carl Hind
came on from the bench.
There were some tasty tackles flying in from Romulus who seemed intent on playing a physical game with little evidence of football
at this stage. The Adders were having the bulk of the play with Chris Partridge and Duncan Willetts working the line with some
nice touches. The ref finally got his cards out for a challenge in midfield by a Romulus player (sorry guys didn't get the name). This
was to prove costly for them when the same player decided to use a well known international hand signal to the Adders fans and earned
a second yellow, leaving the field to boisterous chorus of Cheerio from the stands. To be fair Romulus responded well and the
10 men applied some good pressure finally resulting in an own goal (credited to Danny Haynes) on the stroke of halftime.
Substitutions in the 2nd half saw Josh "Kanu" McKenzie replace Gary Redgate and Roy Dunkley (welcome back Roy!) replace
Duncan Willetts. Their presence changed the game and wave after wave of Adders attack seemed to get thwarted in the final third.
A trademark mazy run by Josh was truncated by a good save from the Romulus keeper and Chris Partridge also had a one on one saved.
It would be Josh who finally brought cheer to the travelling fans with a simple tap in to level the score with only a few minutes remaining.
Stefan made a couple of good saves during the game and can be proud of his contribution.
Next up are Loughborough Dynamo in the MFA League Cup at Sheepy Road on Saturday 24/02/07.
Team line-up
R Williams, Beale, Everitt, Haynes, Redgate, Swann, Browett, Wells, Cudworth, Willetts, Partridge
Carl Hind came on for Willow and Stef went in goal, that was after about 5 minutes
McKenzie came on for Redgate and then Dunkley for Willetts
Coalville Town 1:2 Atherstone Town 17/02/07
Midland Football Alliance
Report by Marc Evans @ Owen Street
The Adders continued their recent upturn in form with a fine away victory against Coalville Town at Owen Street.
The side showed three changes from the draw at Boldmere. Tom Cudworth, signed from Leamington, made his debut on the left of midfield. Tom Browett came into the heart of the midfield on the back of a superb display for the youth team on Thursday night while Richard Palmer started at right back.
The Adders started the game brightly. After just six minutes a cross from new boy Cudworth was not properly dealt with by the Ravens defence and Michael Swann sent a half volley just inches over the crossbar.
Browett then showed the class that has earnt him County recognition as he surged through the Coalville midfield and drove a powerful shot in which goalkeeper Steve Wilson did well to parry away. Chris Partridge looked set to slam the rebound home but a fine last ditch challenge from John Newall denied him.
From the resulting corner the Adders could have scored with any of four shots. Cudworth swung the ball into the near post and Wilson punched the ball against his own crossbar. Michael Swann reacted quickest but saw his shot blocked by a defender. The ball fell perfectly at the feet of Duncan Willetts who's first time shot had the keeper beaten but rebounded back off the inside of the post. Chris Partridge was onto the loose ball quickly but was denied by another excellent last ditch challenge and somehow Coalville escaped with the scores still level.
Having had so much of the early play the Adders were very nearly caught out by a sucker punch at the other end. Coalville won a free-kick just inside the Adders half which was taken quickly to Danny Gallersher who shot from fully 35 yards forcing a superb save from Richard Williams who turned the ball over the bar at full stretch.
Coalville then began to impose themselves on the game winning a series of free-kicks and throw ins in dangerous areas but the Adders defence stood strong and managed to deal with the significant aerial threat of the hosts.
Then on 22 minutes the Adders snatched the opening goal. Richard Palmer came forward from his right back position to deliver a good cross into the Coalville area. Keeper Wilson came charging out but Chris Partridge comfortably beat him to the ball and looped a header over the stranded custodian and into the net, much to the delight of the travelling Adders hordes.
Just four minutes later the Adders advantage was doubled. Coalville conceded possession deep inside Adders territory and Cameron Stuart dissected the Coalville defence with a delicious through ball for Chris Partridge who drew Wilson out before producing a deft chip to leave the keeper with no chance.
With half an hour on the clock Coalville once again showed their threat from restarts as a long throw was poorly cleared by Danny Haines and John Newall struck a low volley towards goal but Richard Williams was right behind the shot and made a comfortable save.
As the half drew to a close Williams was again called into action. This time a Jordan Lee free-kick from the left was swung in vicously and looked destined for the top corner of the net until Williams dived to his left to turn the ball over the bar for a corner kick. It proved an important save as it ensured the Adders took their two goal advantage into the break.
Coalville came out looking a little more advanturous in the second period. Danum Russell made a great run down the right and cut the ball back for Kelvin Philips who looked certain to score until a fine intervention from Danny Haines who did enough to force Philips into shooting wide of the target.
At the other end Michael Swann got into a good position on the right and cut the ball back towards Chris Partridge who was denied at the last moment by an interception from Newall who was having a fine game for the Ravens.
Swann was then involved at the other end as he was booked for a foul on Danum Russell. Jordan Lee took the resulting free-kick but blazed over when a cross looked the better option.
Swann's booking was to be his last meaningful act of the game as he was withdrawn to make way for Stefan Beale.
With an hour gone the Adders almost extended their lead further as Duncan Willetts found himself free in the Coalville area but Steve Wilson was equal to his effort and kept his side in the game.
Coalville the went close as a good run from Danum Russell ended with a lay off to Jordan Lee who curled the ball just past Richard Williams far post.
Lee's set peice delivery was proving to be one of Coalville's most potent attacking weapons and he was again involved on 75 minutes. Another good effort drew another excellent save from Richard Williams who turned the ball over the bar. Danum Russell took the resulting corner and John Newall was inches away from halving the Raven's defecit with his far post header.
Chris Partridge was then replaced by Josh McKenzie.
With 77 minutes on the watch Coalville's second half pressure was finally rewarded. Danum Russell was the instigator with a fine run and pass which released Kelvin Philips who beat Richard Williams with a low shot which found the bottom corner of the Adders net.
Jimmy Ginnelly looked to sure things up as Cudworth was replaced by Danny Pitham to provide a greater physical presence when defending aerial balls.
Meanwhile Duncan Willetts went close to increasing the Adders lead. He took a quick free-kick which caught most of the Coalville defence napping but not keeper Wilson who was alert to the danger and turned the ball over for a corner. The ball was whipped into the near post and cleared to the edge of the area where Stefan Beale fired a low shot back in but Wilson was able to make a comfortable save.
Coalville were throwing everything at the Adders now. Russell and Philips combined well again to allow Philips a good chance at the far post only for another excellent intervention from Danny Haines to deflect the ball behind for another corner. From that kick the ball was flicked to the far post and Newall was again in the right place but couldn't supply the finish as the ball looped high over the bar.
Russell was excerting some real influence and as the game moved towards stoppage time he picked up on a poor first touch from Haines and squared the ball to Newall, now being used as a makeshift striker, who smashed the ball past Richard Williams but fortunately for the Adders it sailed wide of the far post.
That proved to be the final chance for Coalville and the Adders had clung on for a crucial victory. With neither Leamington nor Romulus in league action and with Tipton losing the Adders made up ground on the leagues leading sides and hopes of securing promotion may not be completely dead yet.
There were a number of fine individual performaces. Chris Partridge looked to be back to his best with two well taken goals. Tom Browett was outstanding in the middle of the park while Richard Williams was again called upon to make a number of excellent saves to ensure the Adders held on for the victory.
The Adders now travel to Sutton Coldfield's Coles Lane ground on Monday to face Romulus in a crucial league fixture that could see the Adders re-establish themselves in the battle for a top three position.
Adders Team;
Richard Williams, Richard Palmer, Cameron Stuart, Leigh Everitt, Danny Haines, Michael Swann (Stefan Beale) Tom Browett, Chris Partridge (Josh McKenzie) Duncan Willetts, Tom Cudworth (Danny Pitham) Subs not used; Carl Hind, Dale Belford.
Boldmere 1 - 1 Atherstone
Partridge 45,
Adders - Richard Williams, Cameron Stuart, Danny Pitham (Stefan Beale), Danny Haines, Leigh Everitt (c), Ashley Wells, Carl Hind, Adam Seewood (Tom Browett), Michael Swann, Duncan Willetts, Chris Partridge (Joshua 'Kano' Mckenzie) Subs (Unused) Chris Long,
The Adders brought in Adam Seewood into the midfield, the Ex Walsall Wood player partnered Tamworth terrier Carl Hind in the centre of midfield, with the speedy Ashley Wells and Michael Swann either side of the centre two. The back four consisted of the following foursome, Skipper and evergreen centre back Leigh Everitt filled the right back roll with Danny haines and Danny Pitham filling the central defensive rolls, Cameron Stuart slotted in at left back with Richard Williams fulfilling his usual roll between the sticks. Chris Partridge and Ex Halesowen, Cheltenham and Redditch forward Duncan willets filled the two front rolls having scored four goals between them in the recent 5-1 victory over Market Drayton Town.
The Adders started brightly on the sloping Church Road pitch, and had the majority of the play in the opening twenty minutes. The ball however jusst didn't seem to drop right for the Adders, Wells on the left wing looked busy and caused the Mikes right back troubles, Seewood and Tamworth Terrier Hind caused the Mikes defence problems, Michael Swann a midfielder who as the season has gone on has shown some great skill filled the right midfield slot well, if only the Town could have put one of their early chances away the game may have had a different turn of events as it went on, The Mikes broke several times and on eighteen minutes went ahead after a mistake on the right side of defence saw a cross come in close and the Mikes went ahead, however the Adders seemed to go off the boil a little and the hot water of the early stages of the games was slowly cooling. But with Half time fast approaching the impressive Swann on the right wing made a run to the byline crossed the ball long across the edge of the six yard box, the ball seemed to elude the Mikes defence, Duncan Willetts could have got the the touch but left it and it fell creamly into the path of Coventry Kid Chris Partridge who slotted home cooly eight yards out.
The teams entered the Church Road pitch for the second period as the rain belted down, No changes were made The second half saw some lovely passing movements and the Adders probably shaded the early stages, however The Mikes broke a couple of times and Richard Williams had to be on his best form to deny the Mikes another lead on a couple of occasions, the talented much travelled overlooked for England keeper made was on fine form. Stefan Beale who recently became a father replaced Danny Pitham, Tom Browett came on with eleven minutes to go, Joshua 'Kano' Mckenzie replaced Chris Partridge with ten minutes to go. Danny Haines was sent off late on for a two footed challenge. But the Adders thought that they had stolen all three points when Cameron Stuart whipped in a free kick late on, as the ball floated goalwards, Willets jumped and got the slightest of touches as he met the Mikes keeper who flapped at the ball, the ball hit the back of the net but Joshua Mckenzie was judged to be off side by the linesman on the far side of the penalty area.
