Hellenic Fisher 6 - Thrapston Town 1
Do not let the score line fool you – this
was a much more evenly contested match than the result suggests.
After the recent poor showings Thrapston had a lot to prove
to themselves, and against a top team they knew they would
have their work cut out. The team started brightly enough
and the first 5 minutes indicated that the teams’ attitude
was focussed as they pressurised Hellenics. However the fragility
in team defensive concentration so apparent this season, was
demonstrated when on their first attack Hellenics scored after
ample opportunities for Thrapston to clear their lines.
Thrapston battled back and created chances but with luck
coming from the same source as Tottenham’s and against
committed opponents who were unlikely to gift you a goal there
was inevitability that Thrapston would not draw level. Alas
that was the fate and in the last 10 minutes of the half Thrapston
wilted and forfeited 3 more goals which collectively could
have been – should have been stopped – lessons
we still have not learnt.
So half time – a soliloquy on commitment and team play,
substitutions and a reshuffle of the pack – there was
even time for a drink before we set about the second half.
It appeared to work as Thrapston bounced back to life and
started punching their weight. Alexander Palmer donned the
mantle of Didier Djoba to rampage over the Hellenic defense;
Ryan Caller worked tirelessly in an unaccustomed floating
role; Ryan Wright unleashed into midfield terrorised Hellenics
right side; and Liam Carter anchored the defense Terryesque.
These performances led and inspired the whole team to raise
their game.
5 minutes in and Thrapston more than deserved the goal Ryan
Wright scored lashing in a cleverly taken quick free kick
from Cameron Glynn. Tails up wind, behind them Thrapston pushed
relentlessly forward. Attempts, chances and corners piled
up but no second goal came – that bit of luck needed
when times are tough was not with us. It was unfortunate that
Hellenic counter attacked with speed and precision and with
Thrapston stretched conceded 2 more goals late on, but Thrapston
never gave in were on the offensive to the end.
A defeat – we don’t like them - but the way the
team played with such heart in the second half has not left
us downbeat, but brought back that feeling we remember –
pride, as the team played like we know they can. Take that
second half performance forward for the rest of the season
and it will be rewarding, slip below that standard and you
are not doing yourself or the team justice.
Team: Hansord, Love, Carter, R Wright, Gadsby, Munro, Morrison,
Caller, Glynn, Wright G, Davies, Palmer, Durrant, Godfrey.
Supporters Player of the Match: Ryan Wright
|
