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,Semi Final - Divisional cup - NLC v Duke's Head (22.02.04)
NLCFC
Andy's Report: With a number of regulars absent NLC faced their biggest match yet this season. The Duke's Head knew it - arriving 2 hours before Kick Off and whipping themselves into a frenzy in the NLCC changing rooms. Their 30-strong, potty-mouthed away crowd waited eagerly. First half: A cool North London edged a tight first half. The Wakeford brothers were full of running and a strong back four restricted the Head to a number of speculative long shots. One superbly saved by an impeccable Rich. The conditions favoured skillful wing-play and Robinson and stand-in Mark didn't disappoint. 2nd half. The second half began with the Crickets coming close as John Robinson's shot was cleared of the line. Then 2 penalties, the first went to the Crickets after a foul on Ben Wakeford. He neatly found the keeper's arms. The second went to the Head after a disputed hand ball by Caz Nicholson. The Duke's fired wide. So with 10 mins remaining and the abuse towards an unflappable Derek increasing the Crickets again called on their young keeper to make one of the saves of the season, down low to his right. As extra time approached it was left to the old head to finish off a crumbling Duke's Head. Ben Wakeford scored a placed 18 yarder with 1 minute remaining. NLC 1 - Duke's Head 0. Ben's Supplement: Special mention to the defense this week which saw the return of Paddy Mills and JC filling in surprisingly well at left back. A fine win for all concerned considering the abuse and intimidation that was thrown before, during and after the game. We now have our day out at the end of the season, but the most important part of the season (getting promoted) is far from over. Availability must improve if we are to avoid playing this lot and too many easy games next season. Let's make the last few games irrelevant. Thanks to all, Ben. |