The last meeting of these two teams resulted in Euxton’s most disappointing performance to date. Today was always going to be a good barometer for how far the boys had progressed in the last few weeks. With the postmen on strike we were looking to the Villa boys to deliver a first class performance. Matthew and James were unavailable so it was a depleted squad that welcomed Ladybridge. Adam volunteered to go between the sticks and with Jake and Connor both starting, Brad dropped to the bench.  

Ladybridge are a good team probably better than we gave them credit for last time and if we are being honest they could have played the first twenty minutes without a keeper. We were on the back foot for most of the first half with near misses from them or good saves from Adam. On 18 mins when one of their forwards managed to knock it over the bar from 3cm out you just thought we might get away with this one. But it was not to be. Two minutes later our defence was breached and we were one down shortly followed by two down. It was at this point that the boys perked up and our first meaningful attack ended with Liam knocking it in. 1-2.  This proved to be short lived with two further Ladybridge goals giving them a 4-1 half time lead.

 Although not reflected in the scoreline the second half was a better display from Euxton. There was a bit more urgency and pressure, in parts, which saw Matthew get our second goal courtesy of a Barney corner. When they want to compete, as they have proved on a number of occasions, the boys can be a match for anybody. It’s a pity that it can’t be maintained for a whole game. Our best play always seems to be in our own half, we just lack the confidence when we cross the half way line. The ability is definitely there we just need eleven Dylans to get it out them.

 Following last weeks encounter with middle earth it was a welcome relief to return to normality, where both teams were able to play in a pleasant atmosphere and match officials were shown the respect we would want our kids to observe. Once you have to view a game through Rose coloured spectacles where moronic behaviour is tolerated and there is no room for a sense of humour then this reporting lark isn’t for me. If anyone else wants a go they are welcome to it.