Billinge v Grapp Res 18/08/11
This is always a tough trip for Sports and this was to be no different, especially as the home side had been expected to formulate a large part of the Sports 1st team only weeks prior to this fixture. Davies also made the bold decision of placing experienced trio Kane, Mcgrath and Jones on the bench.
The game started badly and Billinge took the lead following a throw in that Grappenhall failed to clear, although centre back Tom Buckley looked to be pulled down prior to the goal. It felt as though this could be a long night for the men from Stockton Lane. This mood quickly changed though as Grappenhall began to dominate the game and the 3-5-2 formation began to suit the tempo and style that Sports were showing. After 25 mins Sam Shaw headed home from close range to level for Sports. This forced Billinge to change their shape and the half ended with both team trying to get a grip of the game.
Grappenhall were told by Davies, who had kept them outside at half-time, to up the tempo and push higher up the pitch. This they did and they looked the more likely. Unfortunately, Muzzy was involved in a tough challenge resulting in him having to leave the field and being replaced by Kaney. Every cloud does have a silver lining and Kane was quickly on the scoresheet deflecting home a corner. 2-1 to Sports and Davies and the small contingent who had made the midweek trip to Lancashire were delighted.
Grappenhall remained the better side but then a bad injury to Tom Buckley left them down to ten men for the last ten minutes. Davies reacted quickly and changed the shape and position of some of his players. Grappenhall were under the cosh a little but the home team players were becoming increasingly frustrated. Then as injury time arrived Pete Jones was put through on goal. Still having a lot to do he was able to chip the keeper quite magically in a fashion that only a great friend of the lord would be able to do. ..... 3-1 Grappenhall and the celebrations began with only the injured heroes of Buckley and Musgrove unable to join in.
Manager Says:
“what a night, what a night...... everyone of them were outstanding today. I only wish that Tom and Muzzy had not picked up those injuries, are thoughts are with them and we will certainly be hoping that they both have a speedy recovery, they were superb alongside the other 12 lads involved. All three subs were disappointed to not have started but I explained why and their reaction was outstanding. The players are showing a great desire and the spirit in that dressing room is incredible. Me and Steveo are very proud tonight”.
MOM: Tom Horsely
