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Lichfield star in bruising encounter

February 13 2010 | Mens 2nd XI vs Nottingham | 1-0 Win

The Men’s 2nd XI hosted Nottingham this weekend, looking to stay in with an outside chance of promotion from the East Mids Premier league. A tough game was expected - Nottingham lay marginally ahead of Lichfield in the league table, and had won by the odd goal in nine when the reverse fixture was played on Halloween.

 

As the bare eleven lined up for the hosts, ball retention and strength were the text preached by Lewis, and the home side carried these words throughout the match. As a tight first half wore on, Lichfield seemed the stronger, although clear cut chances were few and far between. Round and Parker worked the attacking channels selflessly, and defended from the front. The youthful midfield quartet of Lambert, Gleeson, Astle and Lewis won crucial tackles, and made vital interceptions. And the increasingly confident back four of Baldwyn, Platt, Mason and George were well marshalled by ‘keeper Lax.

 

This effort was without direct reward in the first half, although Mason and Lewis both had half chances from set plays. In the final moments, Nottingham issued a warning shot to the Reds as Lichfield made a mess of clearing their lines. However, no damage was done and the sides went to the break at stalemate.

 

Lewis reminded the squad of their defensive sensibilities during his half time sermon, and encouraged his brave players to maximise their attacking opportunities. The second half continued in the same vein as the first, with Lichfield in control, but without too many golden opportunities. Gleeson was granted time in the box to unleash a powerful effort, but the Nottingham ‘keeper was equal to the challenge, and kept the hosts at bay.

 

Finally, with 15 minutes remaining, Lichfield won a penalty corner. Astle’s injection was swift, Gleeson’s stop accurate, Mason’s strike formidable, and Round added the deftest of touches to ensure the ball nestled in the bottom corner of the goal. Lichfield had struck a vital blow in a close contest.

 

For the remainder of the game, Lichfield mostly kept the visitors at arm’s length. One dangerous cross flashed across the circle, but the Nottingham attackers failed to bury this chance. The lack of substitutes began to take a toll on the Lichfield team as Lambert was sniped and nearly died, Baldwyn turned an ankle, and Lewis tumbled. But the determined home side sensed victory and ensured that Nottingham found no way through to move up a place to fourth in the league.

 

Many thanks to the umpires, and ever faithful followers (the 2nd XI ‘Ultras’). Our next fixture is at Collins Hill a week on Saturday, when these hardy souls will take on mid-table Coventry & North Warwick. Your support is always welcome.

Goal Scorers

Team

Paul Baldwyn (C)
Robbie Gleeson
Martin Clarke
Paul Lewis
Matthew Astle
Steven Bailey