|
Saturday 20th April 2002 Lindisfarne
Athletic 1 (0) vs. (1) 1 Garnett 1st
|
| Match Report Garnett's poor run of results continued when they were unable to overcome a determined Lindisfarne side. The Green and Black were weakened before kick off when keeper Craig Gracie had to drop out for family reasons and the need to field the strongest possible reserve team. Inspirational skipper Christian Valenza took the gloves and third teamer Graeme Duncan took the place on the subs bench. Garnett started well with the hardworking midfield impressing with their movement off the ball as Garnett tried to get the ball under control on a very hard and bouncy pitch. Despite the Green and Black's best efforts few clear chances were created. Impressive youngster Dave Alexander twice came close after slick passing moves before fellow fresher Mark Rogers broke the offside trap to calmly finish from a narrow angle after his initial shot had been saved. Lindisfarne were restricted to even fewer chances as Garnett defended resolutely, veteran Paul Miller again impressed with his total commitment to the cause. Unfortunately Miller's enthusiasm for the challenge proved costly when he had to go off with a twisted knee on the stroke of half time. Substitute Duncan got an unexpected early entry on the right side of midfield with Pete Curtis slotting in at heart of defence and Craig Rowson dropping to left back. The second half proved a disappointment as Garnett were unable to hold or add to their lead despite outstanding defending from Curtis (MOM) and Tim Carnley. A harshly awarded free kick was smashed into the top corner past rookie keeper Valenza five minutes into the half. This proved to be virtually Lindisfarne's only opportunity but the Green and Black struggled to play the ball to feet of prolific Norwegian duo Kym Vamrak and Andy Ree so created few chances of their own despite the non stop running of Dave Mercer and youngsters Rogers and Alexander. Rich Cusworth impressed in his new found right back position. This result proves yet again what a highly competitive league the Tyneside Amateur is. Team: Valenza, Cusworth, Curtis, Rogers 1, Miller (Duncan), Carnley, Mercer, Alexander, Vamrak, Ree, Rowosn |