Castle Rise 1 v Thrapston Town
5
It had been suggested from other team managers that we have a good side and it was accepted that we had beaten what had been put in front of us. To play and beat the top sides in division 1 though was a whole different kettle of fish.
We looked in that kettle today – Away from home against a team on a winning run , in Third place in div 1, and with injuries and sickness to key players within our team we came away with the kind of result and scoreline that proves we can compete with the others. Hey that Fish tasted good.
It was always going to be tougher, the scouting mission last Sunday that saw Castle beat Rockingham Forest in the league told us so, but knowledge of their play and formation helped us with the formation and placements within our patched up side.
In early play, Devante Hodgson was played through near the edge of the box, a swift turn and powerful strike hit the back of the net before the Castle keeper could even move. Within minutes it was 2-0, Connor Morson launching an unstoppable shot from a full 25 yards into the top corner. The play and chances were falling mainly Thrapstons way, but they were caught out themselves by an Castle Rise 25 yarder that also flew into the top corner.
The rest of the first half was dominated by Castle possession, although failure to make any decent chances from that. The narrow play and size of players gave Castle an advantage, but Thrapston held on doggedly to go into the break 2-1 up.
Castle started the second half the way they had finished the first and the moment that probably swung the game in Thrapstons way was a superb triple save from Alex Vitue in the Thrapston goal. Soon after this, Hodgson turned provider twice to cross the ball in for Zane Bradshaw-Oliver to open his account for the season with a well taken brace. The fifth, a back post tap in from Rob Winfield completed the scoring and saw the Thrapston boys head towards the second round. A great performance from each Thrapston player and there were several man of match performances today. Unanimously from the coaching team though, that award went to Jordan Davis for his excellent performance.
The final score line was probably a little harsh to Castle, though credit must be given to the Thrapston forwards for finishing a high percentage of chances.
Yes it was out toughest game of the season, and yes we dealt with what was in front of us. Roll on for the second round, and we look forward to welcoming Gt Doddington to Chancery Lane in 2 weeks time. |
