Saturday 15th October 2005 Rutherford 1 (1) vs.(1) 2 Garnett B

This was always going to be a tricky encounter, with a predominantly young and pacey Rutherford team. After such a strong performance the previous week it was difficult to identify why Garnett were never able to exert the same control and solidity. Walworth was certainly missed on the left, but no one really lived up to the billing of the week before.

Rutherford started brightly and the Garnett defence seemed to receive less than adequate cover for players drifting forward from midfield. They had plenty of movement and some good passing moves and it was not surprising that Rutherford took the lead mid way through the first half. Jones was drawn out of defence to challenge the midfield playmaker who had left his marker. A quick change of direction left the Garnett centre half wrong footed and before he could recover, a powerful and well directed shot, from 25 yards, had left Shaw beaten at his near post. With Garnett hitting only long balls there were other chances for Rutherford to increase their lead. The goal scorer again found himself free in the area and, with Shaw hesitating, blazed wide. Gradually the Garnett defence began to gain control and this allowed their midfield to get a little more possession. In a rare foray forward, the ball broke to Envy who calmly rounded the keeper and tucked away the equaliser. Garnett were fortunate to go in 1:1, but the tide was clearly turning.

The second half began with Garnett looking much more solid and more threatening on the attack. Envy and Marshall were beginning to force the Rutherford defence back and it became clear that their goalkeeper was more than a little suspect. Marshall curled a cross towards the far post and the keeper simply helped it on its way in. From this point on there was only going to be one outcome and the only surprise was that Garnett did not increase their lead. Envy found himself with the ball at his feet in front of goal but the unpredictable keeper had already dived at his feet before the ball arrived. The only threat from Rutherford was on set pieces, but even this was nullified by some solid defending. In the end this was another well earned three points to the green and blacks.

Moment to remember: ‘Well played Mr Jones’ called from opposing spectators when Garnett manager substituted himself. Must be someone he taught about 10 years ago.

Author: Gaffer

Team: E.Shaw, S.Cook, K.Jones (R.Eglington '60), L.Brooke, P.Church, E.Chymera, G.Dawnay (c), D.Ford, P.Gault, M.Envy 1 (MoM), L.Marshall 1,