Tuesday 31 January 2017

THE BEST CURE FOR A SORE ARSE...

30th January 2017 - Widnes FC 1 v 3 Southport FC  The quarter finals of the Liverpool Senior Cup was the basis of tonight's match as me and my grand lady made the effort to view what we hoped would be a very competitive match.  I had been off work today and indulged in a 20 mile bike ride and made my rear end rather ruddy sore.  I had only been on a bike once in the last 40 years so my stupidity was paid back with spiteful discomfort.  This may sound like a digression but I can tell you with hand on heart that due to the problem down below the main thing on my mind prior to tonight's match was if the seats would be kind to my crack or cruelty incarnate.  I had been to this stadium once before when Widnes played Eccleshall but my mind was on the footy that day rather than the wedge of my arse.  Hey ho, I mustn't grumble (well not much more anyway) as I did see 31 bird species on my journey as well as a Fox and Sweet Violet in flower - all good stuff for a naturalist.  So, a good drive down, tea and chocolate and the chuff was lowered onto a chosen seat and the teams came out to indulge in their ball booting antics.

Southport, sporting a garish lipstick pink, applied the opening pressure with their No 2 providing a couple of enormous throw-in's that certainly needed watching by the home team and obviously taking care of.  The pinkers poked, executed some neat play from midfield to just outside the box but an end gloss was lacking in the early stages with Widnes holding mighty firm at the rear.  Widnes did cultivate an early break with their industrious No 9 imposing upon the keeper and forcing a deflected clearance to bounce just wide of the target.  Instantaneously it was the same player who broke again after controlling a sturdy pass and found enough room to shoot goalward although it was a wayward effort and failed to trouble the guardian of the mesh.  A pattern began to develop, Widnes were defending deep and looking to pick out the front two with a piercing long ball whilst Southport were playing some smooth, 'on the deck' soccer that was building in the middle of the park, moving forth with ease before just breaking down before a true end product could be attained.  Fair play to Widnes, they were working hard at the back and making the odd chance at the other end. In fact when the home team won a corner and a rising crust connected on the ball with venom they were unlucky not to pilfer the opening goal.  

A static period ensued, it happens, but after an early substitute took place for the guests (and the numerically confused announcer raised a few titters) another huge throw-in came, an episode of in-box fannying was had and the ball was eventually poked forth only to be deflected just wide.  The corner came, a good connection made, the goal was narrowly missed but things were definitely warming up.  Milli-seconds later Southport should have knackered the deadlock when their No 9 latched onto a pearling pass only to be denied at the last by a low-sprawling keeper - now that was close!  Next and Widnes won a corner, the nut that rose hammered the ball downward, the sphere hit the deck and...bounced over the bar - a good response but again...no triumph.  Widnes came again, chucked in a hopeful free-kick, the Southport netter came and grasped at nothing more than fresh air, luckily the ball was off target and we ended the half with a scorecard unmolested by a goal.

A Mars Bar, a piddle and some fresh Ginger (what a great drink that is) and we moved seats just for the sheer hell of it (tis always nice to alter the perspective).

Kick off, Southport moved forth, free-kick, cross-ball, too much pondering by the defence, a shot cum cross and wham, bam, thank you most kindly ma'am - 1 - 0 and Ashley Grimes had truly got the game underway after what was a rather stodgy first period.  Great goal!  Southport now looked to rubber-stamp their advantage and as the peeps in pink pressed and gained greater territorial possession it was in the 58th minute that extra fruit was borne when some neat feet in the box from the substitute led to much fluster and the ball to come out to one Liam Hynes who thumped home and doubled his teams lead.  Widnes now scampered around, Southport had the greater awareness and posed greater threat with their swift passing accuracy.  Another shot came and was headed away for a corner which led to a close in shot blazed over much to the relief of the run ragged home players.  Another long ball nearly led to a Widnes own goal and would have ended the match as a contest and then, after more Southport pressure Ryan Higgins was on the edge of the box, briefly looked up, picked his spot and whoosh, the ball was swept into the far corner to finalise matters and give his team an unassailable advantage.

Widnes now called upon deep reserves, a chance came to grab one back but Southport's No 3 produced a stunning last gasp tackle that denied any thought of a consolation goal.  A couple of long shots came via Widnes hopefuls and respect must go to the side for their desire to keep on working and making sure Southport stayed alert and honest throughout.  The free-kick they won was deserved as was the goal they pulled back via the head of River Humphries - cracking work all round.  From here Widnes came on strong and whilst the two opposing managers bickered on the touchline Southport were put on the back peg as a new lease of life was borne in the home sides hearts who now looked to claw their way back into matters.  88th minute and a through ball was stopped at the last by the keeper, 91st minute and a free-kick was pushed away by the busy netman and on the 92nd minute a corner found Lomax who again was denied by the Southport No 1 who was really earning a late in the day crust.  Mason Springthorpe take a bow.  Alas, despite the rally time ran out for Widnes but deep pride can be taken in their efforts and for making things positive from what was seeming a hopeless situation.  I have pondered tonights Man ofthe Match and am opting for (Ashley Grimes) of Southport, who had a fine game, moved and meandered with talent and as a bonus pocketed a goal - tidy work in a side of nippy, interacting players.

FINAL THOUGHT - So, not the greatest match, not the worst and one of those that, on a cold winter's night, proved that there is much passion about, both on and off the pitch.  This was not a good cure for a sore arse but it is better than sitting at home watching the cretin cube or throwing one off the wrist to a Wheel of Fortune repeat (so I am told).  Southport are a slick unit who just need to work on the killer touch and Widnes came tonight, as underdogs, and proved that spirit, hard work and desire can go a long way to bridging a gap.  It was worth the trip and keeps the football blood flowing - it is what many get by on, and bloody good on em' for their effort.

Saturday 28 January 2017

WE LOCAL YOKELS ENJOY A...TESTER

28th January 2017 - Stockport Town 2 v 1 Silsden AFC   - Expectations of going to a new ground today were washed away as the rain came and forced numerous 'postponed' signals to appear which resulted in only 4 matches remaining at 'all systems go'.  My missus preferred a local game and Stockport was her choice, who am I to argue?  After a morn that saw an hospital appointment see my eyes get dilated to obscene proportions and make the entrance of light almost painful I decided that I best pack my dark shades and perhaps view the match somewhat incognito.  Maybe just as well in case the game turned out to be a dull affair and my report was less than flattering.  'Who was that git who reviewed the match' I can hear the punters holler after a damning low-down was given.  'It was that twat in the dark glasses' would be the undoubted reply followed by a look of puzzlement as to putting a name to the said scandalous scribbler.  The plan seems to have many benefits.  Anyway, we arrived in good time, got a cup of tea and some quite lovely chips, took up a choice seat and watched a match that went something like this (with positivity at the helm of the textual matter).

The globe rotated after the first foot made contact, Silsden were the first to threaten when a corner ball was nutted towards the net, blocked and punted back out and then returned with curving interest by Hancock who saw the ball fly outside of the far post.  A Stockport defensive mix-up allowed Silsden another chance with a 3 on 2 break giving the No 9 (McNally) a clear shot that was cocked up in the extreme.  Moments later the same player was found by a diamond pass, a different foot was used to shoot - alas the result was exactly the same - way off target.  Two stinkers, two chances wasted.  Regardless of these flopped finishes Silsden were still playing the better football and worked many a gap through the centre of the park with only the last quarter seeing the play fall apart.  A scintillating pass by their No 11 was worthy of more but the goal-seeking No 8 was denied at the last by a watchful keeper.

A stodgy section came, a substitute and a brace of delays and then Silsden were at it again.  A corner won, hoofed in, two close range shots had and two fine saves made followed by a further effort being blocked on the line which highlighted Stockport's ability to live dangerously and come out non the worse for wear.  Silsden were certainly setting themselves up to rue these missed chances, a bite on the arse maybe in the offing.  Niggles were beginning to develop with certain players, the ref needed rear end eyes to keep on top of things as the match was becoming ever more frustrating and a test of each sides resolve.  I fancied Silsden to get the first goal when, out of the blue, Stockport played a hopeful long ball that was energetically chased by Oyibo and turned into a corner.  The corner kick came, time stood still and up rose Adam Stubbs to tup home and give his squad a surprise lead.  A lead in fact that was against the flow and so easily executed.  Straight down the other end matters went, 2 response shots produced two solid saves although the second was one that even I would have had a chance of blocking (he states with his noggin in La La Land).  Another break came from Stockport, No 4 played a stunner but the end result didn't transpire and as the half stuttered to a finish it was all still to play for.  A few Stockport players embarrassingly had a set to and rather than respect the lead they had, get their heads down and focus they chose to get distracted and endanger their lead - silly sods.

Tea for the break, much needed it was too as the weather today was a right tit trembler.  In fact I made note to go back home and hand-knit a couple of nipple cups for the next match before these perished pimples gave up and ruddy well dropped off in protest.  Oh those poor teets!

Half two started, we sat in a different place in the hope of avoiding the breeze - no chance, bah. The first chance of this second half came the way of the home side with a close in prod by Hurst just stopped by the feet of the keeper and keeping Silsden in the game.  Stockport were now the brighter unit, their No 3 was frantic and troubling and when an early fizzing corner just avoided contact it appeared a second goal was on the cards.  In truth Silsden should have been level though when some good weaving through the opponents pack led to a good cross met with an awaiting toe that should have done more than whack the ball into the heavens. Silsden had a free-kick next, straight at the wall and leading to a counter-attack that saw a shot booted off the line that only helped in whipping up some fraught emotions even further.  A few idiot exchanges were wasted breath and a good half was developing that should have demanded the players full attention.  Some idle and rather distracted defending by the visitors allowed Stockport's No 4 to get in and only a last ditched defensive effort kept things as they were.  Next, and some backchat combined with a referees dwindling patience saw a red card issued, much to the consternation of the punished player.  It seemed controversial but highlighted the fact that players who are in the leading team should get on with matters at hand and concentrate on just turning the screw on their opponents rather than getting involved in a moan fest.  The decision may have been harsh but hopefully a lesson has been learnt.  From this moment Silsden now had renewed hope.  As a coincidence it was not long after that a overhead back kick from a Stockport defender forced his own keeper to tip over and concede a corner which, in turn, led to several shots ploughing in and being blocked but it was the final one that went flying through the crowd, into the net and squaring matters in no uncertain terms. Daniel Illingworth was the scorer and justice was had.

15 minutes left, Stockport rallied with a flashing cross just missing the toe of the incoming striker - so close, so far away.  Silsden pushed back, but it was the home chaps who came closest after a simply delicious free-kick led to a firm shot by Stubbs being beautifully saved and pushed over.  The ensuing corner was delivered with class, the end product was lacking. The finale was frenetic, the ball was played back and forth repetitively, passed this way, that way and every ruddy old way and when Stockport eventually won a corner that was played and missed all rising heads, up steeped Darryl Grant on the 87th minute to thwack home a shot that found the net and, as it turned out, to decide the outcome of the game.  Lovely finish squire, lovely!  With 3 minutes left and little injury time Stockport came again and forced 2 great saves from a keeper under unexpected pressure.  The ball was blazed around the park, Silsden had semi-breakaways but support was slow in arriving and before we knew it the ref blew for full time and this testing trial of two decent teams was at a close.  Man of the Match today must go to the home side's guardian of the net (Daniel Whiting), due to several saves that kept his team in it, his constant barking from the back and an all round alertness that kept his defense honest.  Enjoy a beer chap!

FINAL THOUGHT - A testing game that at times was unnecessarily tetchy and indicative of two teams slightly frustrated by their play.  Silsden had some eye-catching players on show today and their position in the league strikes me as rather false.  Stockport on the other hand have regrouped well after the recent departure of the manager and several key players, their future however could be rosy as long as they keep their heads and encourage each other rather than aggravate.  My end comparison of this match is made to the dung of an Elephant who has been force fed an oyster and gravel diet.  A bit of a stinker in parts, gritty throughout but, within much of the soccerised shite suggestion is had of one or two potential pearls - how's that?

Sunday 22 January 2017

THE SHARPER EDGE CUTS DEEPEST

21st January 2017 - Abbey Hey 1 v 2 Ashton Athletic  - Up, decorating, 2 CD reviews, general sorting and out to the footy.  I was on my lonesome today as the lasses were busy and in truth the cold snap in the air was not something they would be too disappointed on missing out on.  A cup of cha' in the clubhouse, out onto the touchline complete with cold-assisted nipple erections and an acorn imitating todger - bah.  I think my old John Thomas was considering hibernation due to the lowly thermals - oh what an embarrassing little git he is at times.

Peep, peep!

Off we go, and a lightning attack by the away team saw a flank onslaught lead to a throw in that then saw the ball whipped in and a close in header test the keeper who, with much alertness, saved very well indeed.  A corner came, the keeper rose again to punch away but a shot was flung back and luckily for the home side the ball flew over the bar.  A hectic start it was with the Hey brigade responding to the advancing tide with some determined toil and a couple of shots that both warmed the opposite net mans midriff.  Ashton had an eye-catching willingness to play wide whereas Hey seemed prone to operate more centrally and this was one of the clashes that would take a true footballing connoisseur to predict the outcome of.  Which method would pay off and who would be the first team to change tactics if success was not immediate? 

Ashton started to up the ante and apply a consistent pressure and after a brace of decent crosses a head connected and nutted homeward with the goal gaping only for Hey's No 3 to make a miraculous goal line clearance and maintain the overall balance.  More corners came, Ashton continued to break with pace, Abbey Hey dug firm and put up stout resistance and the match developed into a hard midfield melee with the former side having the greater territorial possession but failing to find any gaps in the oppositions defence.  Athletic's No 10 made a fine run and threaded his carcass through but the final attempt was off target.  2 more shots flew forth from the feet of the Ashton attackers and even though joy was not to be found a goal seemed more than a trifle imminent.  Still Ashton surged with gusto, with several players busting an absolute gut but, as the half came to a close, it was Abbey Hey who had a good chance to poke their heads in front when a corner was taken and a header was just cleared off the line much to the relief of the side who had seemingly dominated from the off.  This one was still there for the taking.

Half time - tea and a wee and out for another 45.

The second half began rather quietly with a bit of back and forth soccer not creating anything to rave about.  Suddenly, out of nowhere, the first goal was had after Ashton once again counter attacked with speed, created a crossing opportunity that resulted in Adam Gilchrist rising and nodding home from close range.  The game, at last, was now on!  Ashton applied themselves with greater force, won more corners and half chances  and sought to seal this game before Abbey Hey could regroup.  The home team called upon their reserves and when No 7 led a breakaway a key point arose that seemed indicative of the difference between these two sides. When Ashton broke they did so as a pack and support and options were plentiful, however when Abbey Hey broke the back up was slow to arrive and therefore the opportunity to create merry hell usually went begging.  Worth pondering further methinks!  Next, and Ashton were whizzing away again, that pesky No 10 produced some stunning work, crossed and when No 11 connected with the crust it was with disbelief that the sphere flew just wide. Ashton were now imposing their will but Hey were far from finished and if a couple of chances would have been confidently cracked first time who knows what may have happened.   Confidence is a funny thing and can really cost a side at the most crucial moments.  

We were getting to the final stretch now, Hey's No 11 broke with vigor and determination, a free kick was won, thumped forward but was low and wide of the net.  Ashton responded and had their own free-kick, this time the ball was hammered through and the keeper saw it late.  An excellent save was made, the ball was loose, the defence stood still and up stepped Adam Gilchrist again to almost put this game out of reach.  2 - 0 - not a scoreline I would have called beforehand.  Back and forth matters went, breaks came at both ends and with only a couple of minutes left on the clock, George Noon of Abbey Hey found himself free at the front with only on defender to beat.  This he did, before cutting in, picking his spot and sliding the ball home with seasoned professionalism to raise a slight glint of hope for his industrious team.  Expectations of a razzle dazzle finish were unfounded though as no further highlights arose and the game was soon called to a halt by a referee who had had a good game and let things move along quite nicely.  My choice of Man of the Match  goes to Ashton Athletics No 10 (Daniel Regan), a veritable soccerised Scarlet Pimpernel who, no matter were he was sought, was always popping up here, there and everywhere least expected.  A nomadic player who worked the flanks well, had an admirable engine and created some quite magical moves that could have ended in so much more - a real asset to any side.

FINAL THOUGHT - The difference in the two sides today was that Ashton were much the sharper and seemed to have a greater desire whereas Abbey Hey looked slightly out of sorts and a bit under the weather.  The visitors moved with direction and paced passion right from the off and always had the upper hand and at the end of the 90 minutes I feel the result was the right one.  This was one of those mid-season, mid-table gritty affairs played out under quintessential murky grey British skies and watched by genuine footballing nuts who appreciate the game for what it is.  Both of these teams will be close together come May and will consolidate their  positions without too much stress and no doubt, the ones in attendance today will still be there, supporting their clubs with the true spirit required regardless of fame, fortune and the weather - what a mad breed, you can't fault em'.  

Saturday 14 January 2017

LIVELY LITHER LADS LESSON IN CONTROL

14th January 2017 - Litherland Remyca 3 v 0 Carlisle City  - The weekend was here again and a trip out for me and the missus was taken.  Down 3 motorways listening do a delicious version of that old radio horror show, Fear on 4 and we arrived at the ground 1 hour after setting off.  Pre-match tea was partaken of as we took up our seats and discussed where to go on this year's wildlife wanders.  The pitch was spacious and surrounded by an athletics track and I had visions of a long donged athlete sprinting by in a feeble attempt to ward off a right old chill.  The mental images may seem odd to those of a decent mind, but suffering from frost fever that is how this noggin works.  Although it could all be down to reading too many mucky books when was younger - oh darn those Razzle-Dazzle days!

Kick off came about, we were already victims to the icy breeze but we stuck at it and watched a one-sided encounter unfold.  The opening period was all Litherland, with Carlisle displaying an early need for more urgency.  The long trek down to this ground won't help matters for the visitors but one thing you have to do in this league is settle in early.  The first break came Litherland's way after a nut-sweet ball was played across the park allowing the flanker to take possession and duly cross which led to the large handful tagged as No 9 (Colin McDonald) to determinedly tup home.  4 minutes only on the clock and Carlisle were up against it.  3 minutes later, as the clouds gathered overhead, the away teams defenders dawdled on the ball in their own danger area, No 9 pilfered, found space and thumped home his, and his teams, second of the match and made Carlisle's uphill struggle a whole lot steeper.  Give the visitors some credit though, they clawed back, created some semblance of equilibrium and if it wasn't for a couple of late rugged block tackles by Lither's No 5 the boys in blue may have pinched one back.  A close in header was also borne but it was too weak to beat the keeper who was in the right place at the right time.  Up the other end and Litherland hassled, won the ball out of nothing and were one pass away from a golden chance - unlucky indeed and the effort thrown in deserved more.

The next goal looked crucial, Carlisle wasted a free-kick, made another error at the rear which should have been punished and then failed to deal with two rather shite corners and made an innocuous situation sticky.  This drastically led to a penalty - by heck, talk about making things more difficult than they really should be.  Up stepped Colin Quirk, did the work and it was 3 - 0 to the home squad.  A trouncing was on the cards which, as a neutral, is never nice to witness.  Come on Carlisle dig deep chaps.  Remyca were now coming in waves, a cheeky chip deserved better but as the half drew to a close, even though Remyca were the dominant force and showing some neat movement, Carlisle were clinging on.  The next attack came when a long ball was just kept in by Lither's No 11 who worked inward, rummaged about and was eventually tackled.  The loose ball was bent forth and looked destined for the bottom corner only to be stopped at the last by the netters outstretched fingertips - good save for sure.  From the corner nothing came, the minutes ticked by and the ref whistled a halt  to end the proceedings.

A dash for some tea and a Hotdog, back to the seats, would Litherland go on and crush their opposition or would Carlisle resist and make a match of it?   Questions, questions with the answer being something like this.

Carlisle started the second period the brighter but it wasn't long before they were dragged back and all became equalised again.  Remyca attacked once more and one particular ball into the box could have posed all sorts of difficulties if colleagues were running into the box to finish. Luckily for Carlisle no-one was hungry enough and they were allowed to breath again, win a couple of ensuing throw-ins, the latter of which was connected with by a rising bonse that knocked the ball in a looping arc and...just over.  Another throw in led to a semi-nutting see the sphere hit the bar and shortly after Remyca had to clear off the line as Carlisle put in some good work in the face of adversity.  The first booking came next after a late tackle but this was a clean enough game and both sides should be duly applauded for that, as well as the referee, who kept a low profile and kept the game liquid.  

Carlisle continued to huff and puff, Remyca subdued all their efforts and the ball eventually started to spend a little more time in the visitor's half making me wonder if the advantage was going to be stretched further.  Carlisle were ploughing in now and calling on admirable reservoirs of spirit and when a free-kick was won, duly crossed and headed goalward it seemed odds on a goal would be grabbed back.  The result - just wide.  A corner next, a fizzing low cross straight across the goal but an unfortunate absence of attackers was the outcome - what a shame!  Litherland bounced back down the opposite end of the pitch and another cross found a head that was in the clear - the cranial shot was ballooned and maybe we were destined to stay as we were.  Into the final run in and a long shot by the home team was deflected over and a clutch at straws just prior to the final whistle led to a shot nearly forced home but just not going the way needed for the fourth celebration. The rain now fell and it was appreciated by all when the ref finalised the match and let us bugger off home.  Man of the Match today was difficult but Litherland's No 11 (James McGrane) put in some classy work, had an ample chunk of style and moved into the right spaces at the right time as well as making some quality runs and forcing certain issues.  Well done ye soccerised 'erbert!

FINAL THOUGHT - It was a ruddy cold day today and even if Charlton Heston would have been in attendance I doubt if he would have been brave enough to bare his frequently exposed chest although I do reckon if Thora Hird was present she would have had a go - perish the thought.  The match itself indicated one side that have every chance to win this league due to their all round desire, full commitment and communication as a unit - in truth Litherland displayed very little to criticise, almost as perfect as the barnet of Roger Moore.  Carlisle on the other hand are still finding their feet, like a young Donald Duck on a frozen pond, and I think will be happy with a mid-table position come the end of this first season.  They dug in today though, showed a steeliness and a dogmatic strength and that alone will keep them safe and ready to fight another day.  I have plans to bob up their end for a match, I shall be expecting a sturdy performance.

Saturday 7 January 2017

LINNETS HAVE THEIR WINGS CLIPPED

7th January 2017 - Runcorn Linnets 2 v 5 Hanley Town  - It was one of those mizzle doused January days of a wretched weary grey that truly encouraged the arse to stay against the mattress and take necessary refuge.  With things to keep me motivated I was up and out early, birding and looking for fungi, then onto a bit of recycling with the missus and after dropping our young lass off we headed down the foul artery that dissects the countryside (known as the M56) to seek out the Millbank Stadium and watch another bout of non-league footy.  Liquid relief was needed, both in one end and out the other, and so appropriate calls were made before we found a seat out of the rain (after 4 attempts and disagreements) and awaited kick off.  I hope the players were water resistant today and had indulged in a good dose of Prozac to keep the spirits lifted - what an absolute shitter!

Kick off, an instantaneous attack was made by the home birds, it was Shanley streaking down the far flank, crossing the ball and seeing his effort nutted out but connected with by one of his comrades who shot just wide.  It was a quick burst indeed but was pursued by a patch of 'feeling out' where both sides searched for openings but only the Green and Yellow gaining any sight at goal with one shot blocked low by the netman and a following blast cracked hard but way too high and capable of nothing more than killing a passing seagull. The game started to develop a pattern with the Linnets looking for the long ball and Hanley looking to counter.  The long ball idea by the home side was difficult to pull off due to a greasy surface and as the ball scooted on it was obvious that a  pinpoint pass was needed or some speedy legs to have a moment of inspiration.  It looked a long shot indeed!  Hanley had the next chance when a foul was ignored, advantage played and a cross from their problematic No 7 allowed his colleague to shoot, albeit straight at the awaiting keeper.  A warning was sent out nonetheless, the away chaps were still in this.  

Time tickled on, the game became subdued, as did the oral orifices of the home fans, which was due to nothing more than Hanley's doggedness and continued high work ethic.  Having said this, after an Hanley corner a quick break was had by their opponents and a low creeping cross seemed to clog the clock and we all watched it creep goalward only to somehow sneak just wide.  Close but no glory found.  The Linnets seemed buoyed by this effort and started to impose themselves but the Hanley keeper was on sharp form with another close in shot saved and the resultant spillage lunged at and grabbed with tight mitts.  Several more through balls were mopped up by this guardian of the mesh but the tide did seem to be shifting and surely it would be only a matter of time before his defenses were thwarted.  Another half chance came the way of the yellows, the keeper was once more in the right place at the right time and even though persistent pressure ensued the goal failed to bulge to the roar of the crowd.  A foul shout came next, it looked rougher than it seemed and the yellow card was spot on despite many onlookers in disagreement and starting to get on the referees case.  Hanley now pushed back, turned the game to what they wanted it to be and frustration rose in the ranks of Runcorn, both on and off the pitch.  Hanley's 5 and 7 were particularly effective and I think the whistle came just in time to save the home team from impending complications.  A good tight half this, the question was, who could make the breakthrough?

A piddle and a chinwag with the missus, by heck it was getting cold now!  Gimme some goals please, get the thermals rising.

Half two and a repeat of the first, Linnets straight on the attack and a golden chance was only thwarted by...yes, another lovely save.  A corner followed, a blur of action ensued, a shot, a block, confusion - goal - out of nothing the home team, via Mark Houghton, had snatched the opener, the first flame had been borne, the requested thermals radiated my way.  Straight down the other end we went though, the ball was swiftly moved with No 9 on it, dinking quickly, bobbing and weaving and...another goal (take a bow Sean Mountford), placed with precision and utter grace, back to all square, madness.  No sooner had I finished scribbling my notes than Hanley were at it again, causing trouble and strife for the opposing defenders which duly lead to a penalty. Up stepped No 10 (Oliver Edwards) to slap home with a sweatless brow and put the game on a whole new footing - shocker indeed.  Now the Linnets needed to fly higher and chirp with a passion rather than get confused in a midfield flock of feistiness.  A brace of fouls came, a hotly disputed penalty shout was turned down for the home lads, no pen, no card and when a Linnet's player was booked seconds later, after a middle of the park clash, the refs name went down in the annals of wankism and his name was unanimously changed to that of 'mud'.  Again the temperature rose and the air began to adopt a blueish tint, all to the fascination of we two neutrals and I suspect, many others.  

Next action, the Linnets won a free-kick, a dash came, a turn on a veritable sixpence and a shot flashed wide from only a few yards out.  It was all the home team now, a long 30+ minutes awaited the visitors methinks.  Linnets pressed again - header, pass and shot - and of course, the usual save.  Hanley broke back, the No 7 was having a good game, a fine move with grace and balance transpired and if it wasn't for the outstretched arm of the goalie the game may have been killed stone dead.  Excitement escalated, Linnets were flapping for all the wrong reasons, Hanley were exposing a stout, resolute backbone of belief.  Again Hanley came, numbers 9 and 11 combined with the latter (Angelo Errico) slapping the ball in at the near post and increasing his teams lead.  One would think Runcorn would come back with boldness but Hanley had yet another chance, when No 7 broke again, crossed to a team mate who just missed the target.  Possession wise the game was balanced but this was about taking chances when they fell and when Hanley won a free kick and superb ball was delivered into the danger area it was no surprise to see Johnathon Higham rise up and nut home yet another goal.  4 - 1 up against one of the best sides in the league, what an impressive away performance.  Another chance could have made it 5 but a weak volley failed to create any triumph and whilst Runcorn huffed and puffed in response it seems that no matter what they did today the end result would always be a disappointment.  They did muster a consolation goal though, which raised slight hope, after a looping shot from Zachery Aley fooled the keeper and reduced the uncomplimentary deficit somewhat.  

Now, at last, momentum shifted, a few yellow cards were brandished as one team threw in the kitchen sink and the other dug deep from the trenches.  Hanley were never severely tested though and when they broke again I feared the worst and after a shot was missed a careless foul came and another penalty was awarded.  Up stepped Sean Mountford and coolly placed the ball in the corner for his second of the match. Game over it seemed - 5 - 2 to the visitors, who would have thought it?  Expecting the whistle to sound it must be added that there was just time for the losing side to thrust forward and rattle the post and then fire the rebound wide and also for Hanley to create another chance from a free kick that was skied from all of 5 yards - what a match this was!  The ref finally blew - a total surprise was confirmed but you would be an awkward git to deny that Hanley deserved this and really had several exceptional performances within their squad that just made the overall difference.  Man of the match could be one of several for the away lads but one must go for the netman (Joe Hemmings) who kept his team in it in the first half and produced one or two tidy saves in the second which swung the game his teams way.  Big applause for the lad in question, it is sometimes an unenviable role being stuck between the sticks but also one that can save the day - as shown on this occasion.

FINAL THOUGHT - The first match attended of the new year and what a start!  Runcorn Linnets are undoubtedly a good team and Hanley are a solid unit who know how to hold their own.  Today the Linnets went home well and truly plucked and the Hanley chaps soaring high like hawks who have swooped in for the kill and taken off their quarry to enjoy.  This season is far from over, both sides have much to play for and they could both be involved in a serious shake-up come the Spring.  Will one be sat on eggs of glory and the other squawking with delight, it all depends on how deep the claws can be dug in and how high the peckers can be raised.  I shall be watching both teams closely and of course, wishing them all the best.  The next time they meet could be one for your calendars - miss it at your peril!