Today was the real start of life in the top division for
Thrapston with a contest against a strong, competitive, combative
Rockingham Forest - an enormous step change from last week’s
opponents.
The first half proved to be a very hard lesson for the Thrapstonites
as they played “backs to the wall” football.
Continuous pressure from Rockingham unhinged the rhythm of
Thrapston who struggled to put passes together and clear
their danger areas. Rockingham missed some gilt edged chances
and Ryan Wright deputizing in goal showed great bravery and
agility in thwarting the Rockingham attack. In truth Thrapston
were lucky to go in at the break only 2-0 down. Thrapston
chances were rare but they should have stolen a goal from
a corner on the stroke of half time but the opportunity was
missed with the goal begging.
The second half was a much more interesting contest as Thrapston
performance resembled England’s during the week – football
rather than rugby! Players became more focused and started
taking responsibility for their roles and they started to
compete and play. Alexander Palmers duel with the Rockingham
defence took on “Rocky Balboa” proportions as
his physicality and directness unsettled them. It was most
definitely game on with both teams giving 100%. Chances were
created and spurned from both sides and although no goals
were scored the game was a much better spectacle.
Well played both teams and it is hoped that Thrapston will
take more away from this game than Rockingham. You have to
compete from the first whistle to the last and you have to
believe in your ability and play with that confidence – Thrapston
should take that from today’s performance and go forward
stronger and better.
