Riversdale 1 - 3 Doncaster Rovers
After coming off a week with a healthy win but the standard of the sides’ football was debatable, the whole group were eager to make amends. The boys were aware they would be up for a tough game given they would be meeting the second placed team and yet to lose a game, Riversdale.
With the side settling early and imposing their presence from the outset, they were rewarded at the 5 minute mark of the first half when a cross from the left by Cameron found Ben running into the 18 yard box where he controlled a difficult bobbling chest high ball and calmly slotted the ball away.
The early goal appeared to provide the boys with that little extra confidence and the return of a team orientated passing game was great to see. The sides’ domination for the next few minutes brought about by the hard work of chasing, closing down and tackling was bringing errors from the Riversdale side.
The sides second goal was a wonderful effort when the ball was gathered by Cameron on the left approximately 25 yards out and with a clear view of the goal let fly with a powerful shot which gave the keeper no chance.
The second half saw a different Riversdale side come out and for the first 11 minutes the game appeared to be turning in their favour. This was until a great effort by James to keep the ball alive inside the 18 yard area found Cam who instinctively with his back to the goal turned and hit a hard low ball which beat the keeper at the near post.
Doncaster’s third goal then sparked Riversdale further into action with the run of play being dominated at most times by them. Riversdale’s continual push into our defensive half eventually brought about a goal for them, but only just. A last minute lunge by Michael almost had the ball cleared of the line but his limited reach could only force the ball into the inner side netting.
A very disciplined effort by all and a great result for the team. Especially pleasing to see the return of the game style everyone knew the boys were capable of.
Cheers Jack
