Match Review

5th November 2000 Burton Joyce 4 v 2 Gunthorpe Juniors
Scorers: Sam Smith(2), James Bird, Anthony Kefer

This always promised to be a good game and it certainly produced some fireworks. The weather was fine although the recent rain made the pitch greasy on top although this did not seem to effect either side. The game started with plenty of end to end play with Jamie Gibbs being forced to make a save very early on. Ten minutes into the game Anthony Kefer headed a suberb goal - his 9th of the season - to put BJ in front. BJ's improved confidence after scoring that all important first goal worked wonders with James Bird and Oliver Woodward linking up well with Sam Smith to keep pushing the ball forward. This pressure paid off with a nicely taken goal by Sam Smith who shot low into the corner of the net after beating two players. Mathew Powroznyk nearly added a third when his fiercely stuck volley from just near the half-way line was only just tipped over by the Gunthorpe goalkeeper.

BJ felt well on top at half-time and the same team returned to the pitch for more of the same but the break had taken the momentum away and within 8 minutes Gunthorpe had pulled two well taken goals back to make it all level at 2-2. Jamie Gibbs saved twice more to stop the visitors going ahead. Both sections of the crowd were now getting really tense. Sam Smith took a shot after a short corner from James Bird took the opposition unawares, the shot was slightly deflected into the net but Sam was quick to claim the goal as it was going in anyway. Fair enough Sam! James Bird added a fourth goal about 8 minutes from time.

The last minutes were frantic with goal mouth scrambles at both ends and plenty of shoulder to shoulder tussles but BJ rode their luck and came out worthy winners.

Verdict : Probably the most rewarding result of the season against a side who had only lost one other game this season.

Manager's Comment : "This was a physically challenging game. I am pleased that the boys kept their shape well and managed to win most of the midfield battles. More performances like this and we will be pushing towards the top of the league - watch out Gedling Town!"

Performance of the Week : James Bird - all the team gave 100% but James played a true Captains role by talking to his team during the match. This helped us keep our shape even under pressure. - Well Done James!

Go Back