Match Report - Reserve Team v Coggeshall Town Reserves

Published by Shane Exley on January 16, 2012 22:38

It was the Ressies first game back after the Xmas break and high flying Coggeshall were the visitors. Matt Cross was back in the team after a long layoff following a fractured wrist. And Alex Tibbert was set to make his debut.

The pre-match talk from the management team was for more passion and commitment from all players if they wished to start getting results. This was obviously taken on board as Colne started brightly. Early exchanges were even. On 10 minutes, Cross broke clear, but was chased down by the defender, who’s challenge was enough to prevent him getting in a clean shot. Bright was looking sharp, and his excellent close control and ability to beat players was causing Coggeshall to double up on him whenever possible. At the other end, Vince, deputising for Pudney in goal, was untroubled. Captain for the day, Michael Huwes, was marshalling his defence well.

Mead went down following a heavy tackle, but was able to continue. On the half hour, a half cleared Coggeshall corner fell to the edge of the box. The top corner strike was pushed away by a flying Vince save. Colne were now having the better of most exchanges. First M Huwes struck a free kick straight at the keeper. Minutes later, Bright released Cross. This time he shaped to place the ball in the top right of the goal, but lacked accuracy and the ball sailed over the bar.

Half Time 0 - 0

The 2nd half was a case of defences on top. Both sides struggling to break down their respective opponents and create clear cut chances. The pitch and lack of recent games was taking its toll on player’s legs. Both side introduced subs in an attempt to steal all the points. Bright was challenged heavily in the box; both players fell to the ground.

Colne’s appeals for a spot kick were waved away by the referee. Colne were pushing forward and winning several corners, but found the Coggeshall keeper’s handling excellent. From one such corner, the ball fell to North, but as he fell back, his attempt was wayward. The final whistle was blown and the spoils shared. A fair result.

Full Time 0 - 0

LINE-UP: Vince, Huwes J, Leach, North, Huwes M, Mead (Bragg S), Spillane (Bugbee), Harris, Tibbert (Sheriff), Bright, Cross.