Euxton Villa 1  Ladybridge 1

The first thing to say about this game is that it was played with great spirit by both sides. It was a physically tough but always a fair game and was a credit to both clubs.

That was from the impeccable way the minutes silence before the match was observed , to the way the players shook hands at the end. In between the game was tense and both sides had periods of time when they were on top.

Ladybridge started the brighter and were on top for the first 10 minutes. Euxton's defence was taking time to settle and the Ladybridge players were first to the ball. Ladybridge were doing well getting the impressive No 9 into the game down their left and when Euxton were caught flat they played a good ball into the box. George had no choice but to get a challenge onto the player and as both players tumbled to the ground a penalty was awarded. Some referees may not have given it, but to be fair there was no argument from Euxton. A well taken penalty put Ladybridge ahead.

After that Euxton came into the game more and in the second 15 minutes were on top. A couple of half chances fell to Lewis and George but we couldn't quite hit the target. A powerful run by Dominic forced a save from the Ladybridge goalkeeper and we forced a number of corners. It wasn't all one way though and Jack had to make a number of blocks and tackles on what was proving to be a testing debut for him. George was forced to make a  last ditch tackle on the No 9 inside the box when he was through on goal.Given that he had conceded the penalty it was a brave challenge.

At half time we knew that we needed to raise our game a little but most of all be patient. Kicking into the wind would make clearing our lines difficult but it would also mean that the ball would hold up a little for our forwards. It was a shame it was so windy because it spoilt some of the football both teams wanted to play .

We started better in the second half despite an early scare when Matthew was forced to make a good save. After 10 minutes of even play Steven played a forward pass to Lewis who put an excellent pass behind the defence for Connor to run onto. He out paced the defence and kept his nerve well to slot home a great finish. Given the situation and the noise from the touchline it was an impressive finish - I saw a first team forward miss twice the day before when in exactly the same position.

The rest of the game was even, end to end and either side might have nicked it. Matthew was doing really well coming to claim the ball and James G was sweeping well , but everyone was working hard. We were forced to bring George off injured and James D went on and was as brave as ever - doing exactly what we asked him to do.

The game finished 1 -1 both sides having worked hard in difficult windy conditions and it was a fair result. There are plenty of tough matches to come but we are looking forward to the return at Ladybridge.

Man of the Match : Steven