Match Review

25th February 2001 Gunthorpe Jnrs 2 v 1 Burton Joyce

Scorer: Tom Parkinson

This game started the run in to the end of the season, all 6 remaining games are going to be tricky but the boys are playing as well now as they have done all season.

The first half started fairly slowly compared to recent games. Both sides were obviously aware of the strengths of the opposition and some cagey play ensued. Both teams forced some chances and its probably fair to say that BJ had the better of the play. Sam Smith took the ball on down the wing, brought the ball inside and shot from the edge of the area - the goalkeeper parried and the ball fell to Oliver Woodward who was unlucky to shoot just over the bar. A few minutes later Gunthorpe had a chance when a fiercly struck shot just went wide. The first half continued in much the same style, end to end play with solid defending by both sides. All three BJ defenders, Mathew Powroznyk, Chris Jackson & Niels Hart were called into action all through the half and proved to be up to the job. Half Time 0-0.

Manager Andy Parkinson's team talk at half time was positive and constructive as usual and the boys started the second half in confident mood. The second half started well for BJ and they soon went ahead when Sam Smith's shot was parried by the goalkeeper and Tom Parkinson was alert to stride up and firmly strike the ball home. The travelling BJ fans were delighted - the deadlock was broken.

BJ nearly went further ahead moments later when Sam shot into the side netting. It was at this point that Gunthorpe made a tactical change and put their No. 7 further up the field. This seemed to disrupt BJ slightly and before they could re-form Gunthorpe equalised after a messy goalmouth scramble. 1-1. Gunthorpe went ahead a few minutes later when a good move through the centre of the park split the BJ defence temporarily and they struck the ball accurately leaving Jamie Gibbs, the BJ keeper, no chance. For the remainder of the game BJ applied more pressure and Anthony Kefer was so unlucky three minutes from the end when his superb shot just edged wide with the crowd gasping. Final score 2-1 to Gunthorpe.

Verdict : A good performance - the boys were unlucky today.

Manager's Comment : "I think we were very unlucky today, a draw probably would have been a fair result, but thats football! The team did well and I'm pleased with their committment today. I must make a special mention of Sam Smith who travelled down from Cumbria early this morning in order to play. My thanks go to Sam and his mum Diane - its much appreciated!"

Performance of the Week : Mathew Powroznyk - Mathew was busy in defence today and never put a foot wrong. He also trained hard on Friday. Well done Mathew!!



To see Mathew with his award Click here



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