Formby Dons 6-1 Freshfield
10th April 2003
A big crowd turned out to see Formby Dons take a big step towards the First Division title as they blew away Freshfield in an eventful local derby. Though the winning margin was the same as the reverse fixture earlier in the season, Freshfield did at least compete in this match and given their stretched resources, did well to keep the game meaningful for as long as they did. Playing five across midfield in the first half stifled the Dons' more creative tendencies, and although they had more of the possession and more of the attacking opportunities, their clear cut chances were few and far between. Their goal came when Graeme Rooney declined Nigel Power's invitation to clear the ball and instead sent a looping header over him and into the goal. That might have seen Freshfield capitulate, but instead they strengthened their resolve and held firm. Tony Lynch narrowly missed a good chance to equalise and the score remained 1-0 at half-time.
The Dons scored early in the second half. Chris Jones, whose performance otherwise was good, failed to prevent a cross coming in from the left flank and the ball was swiftly swept into the net. That goal saw a huge upsurge in the home side's confidence, and their play took on an attacking flair and pace that Freshfield could not compete with. They scored again when Freshfield refused 3 chances to clear the ball form their own box and the ball was eventually crashed into the roof of the net. Power pulled off a remarkable save to keep out a 20-yard pile-driver, and Freshfield rallied again. The Dons fought back and scored a fourth, Power saving well again but seeing the rebound slotted home from a tight angle. Tony Lynch scored a consolation goal soon after, coolly chipping the Dons 'keeper from 20 yards out. But the championship contenders showed a remarkable commitment, and applied yet more pressure to score two more before the end.
In some ways Freshfield left this match wandering whether a full strength team might have given the Dons a run for their money, but realistically Freshfield can produce a perfomance to match the Dons on this form only once or twice a season. Consistency is what is needed, and the Dons seem to have that in abundance. This match should be a lesson well learnt.
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Team
Nigel Power |
Subs not used
Manager's Man of the Match
Player's Man of the Match
Supporter's Man of the Match
Attendance |