Muni-flex 2-1 Freshfield 2nd XI
8th December 2002

After a shocking 7-0 reverse by the first team last week, it was the turn of the reserves this week against Muni-Flex at Sandbrook Road. With the referee not turning up, it was left to a Paul Durkin figure from the Freshfield line to take over the whistle-blowing role for the match.The game was evenly contested throughout the first half with chances at either end. John Eccles' pace was a constant threat during the first period but an unhelpful pitch and a lack of composure diminished his approach play at key moments. The first half also saw meaningful contributions from Wynne and Jawook down the flanks, both enjoyed the free rolling conditions out on the flanks. The teams went in at half-time with the score at 0-0.

Freshfield started the second half with renewed vigour and were unfortunate not to have broken the deadlock during a sustained period of pressure. Again chances were created but not taken. Muni-flex remained dangerous on the break, and were rewarded with a goal after an hour of play. Freshfield responded almost immediately with a scrappy goal from Richards.

The remainder of the match followed the pattern of the first half with no team stamping their authority on proceedings. The score was still at 1-1 when Steve Dwyer committed a foul thirty yards out from goal. A Muni-Flex defender eventually volleyed the resulting free kick home. The free-kick decision and the goal itself were hotly disputed but in truth the free kick was poorly defended and Freshfield paid the price. Despite a late rally by Freshfield the game finished 2-1 to Muni-Flex.

The atrocious pitch destroyed the game as a spectacle. The game was more of a battle than a game of football but Freshfield will look at this as 3 points lost. There were no outstanding performances on the day but special mention should go to captain for the day Nik Balshaw. He led by example throughout the game with his work-rate and his passing. If only more players could follow his example!