Tutbury Tigers 1 – 2 Stretton Swifts

 

The Swifts gave us a tough time in our last encounter but with Nick and Joseph back, we had more options in defence. Top goal-scorer Callum moved up front with Leo. He can play (and score!) from any position and that is a great plus for the team.

We started brightly. The lads were definitely up for the match, closing down the opposition quickly. Joseph was quick to snuff out any chance of their striker getting the ball under control. As the half went on, we gained more possession and started to dominate the game in midfield. The increased possession led to a series of corners and Scott floated one in perfectly for Callum who made a late run into the box. He rose ‘like a salmon’ at the far post and nodded it down into the corner of the net (with his hat on). It was one of the best goals I have seen from a corner at this level.

We continued to press forward with the midfield pair of Scott and Luke trying to thread the passes through to Leo and Callum. When Stretton did break forward the defence and midfield worked tirelessly to stop the shots. However football can be cruel and moments before half time, Stretton unleashed a long-range rocket and flew over Foxy to level the score.

Ethan and Tom came on at half-time and we continued to have chances on the breakaway, however we were dealt another cruel blow when Stretton slid in to go 2-1 up. Last time, we crumbled at this point and eventually lost 4-1, so it was heartening to see the lads maintain their spirit this time. Man of the Match was Joseph for concentrating and constantly tackling all through the game. An all-round cracking performance and we should take this upbeat mood into our next match!