With nearly a full team available (just Shaun away) Brendan and I felt more confident of a result today. Infact Brendan was that confident he decided to turn up half way through the first half, thankfully myself and “super linesman Rob” had it covered !! (are we mates again now Rob ? lol….)
Not really knowing what we were walking into we set up to not concede early on and see what happened which was a good job as the first 10 minutes Mickleover were definitely controlling the game although never really looked to get past the might of Ben and Jeevan securing the back line. Josh in goal also needs a mention at this point as he was once again fantastic in goal today controlling the area and being vocal from start to finish. He clearly has confidence from all his back line as everyone on it had no issue passing backwards and Josh was used more as an outfield player today at times than a goalie which is testament to his ability.
As the lad’s confidence grew, so did their performance. Again we started pushing from the back with last week’s man of the match Shay pushing forward well and Archie in front of him acknowledged this. Archie appeared to thrive being fair but aggressive and being a constant threat which is becoming normal practice for him.
Harry soon realised that the midfield needed to be tougher and his determination once again began to shine and his workrate was again, second to none. His vision and running off the ball was a pleasure to watch and I’m not sure even he knew the impact this was having and the holes it was creating for us to play through. His new found partnership with Tom is growing stronger week to week and today was no exception. The pair really do compliment each other extremely well like they’ve played together for years. When one pushes forward, the other hangs back and this confidence in each other appears to rub off onto others all over the pitch. So much so our little bulldog Jamie acknowledged this, stepped up and broke the dead lock opening the score sheet at 1-0 to Chellaston.
Following this breakthrough it was clear to see the lads calmed there nerves and then began to play as we’ve seen them over the last few weeks, with intensity and direction. Shortly after up stepped Jamie once again with a true poachers goal, full of grit and determination to make it 2-0.
Now I’m not going to say I told you so however in my report against Mickleover Marvels I made a comment and I quote “I have to say on another day Jamie could easily have bagged a hat-trick and I’m sure before the end of the season, he’ll get one.”
3-0 to Chellaston and Jamies first hat-trick of the season !!!! Who’s idea was it to ever play him as a right back Brendan when he should clearly be playing further upfront ??? !!! (I already know you’re going to say Neil lol……). This is how the first half would end.
Now having a full squad and a couple of new players the line up was changed but still the passion and commitment was there. New boy Harry slotted into the back line seamlessly which allowed Will to have an opportunity to push further upfront from his normal centre half role where he was asked to play in midfield. Cooley he took control of the ball in the middle of the park, lined it up and shot only to narrowly miss the target by the thickness of the woodwork. I think the whole team was willing that to go in as being a defender its not every week he gets this opportunity. Unlucky Will……
Many chances were created in the second half and although Connor has been in great form as of late, today was just not his day. He had a few chances that unfortunately just didn’t fall for him but on another day, they certainly will as has been proven over the last 3 weeks. Its not all about the goals though, its great seeing not only him but others getting into the positions to score and having these chances created.
Shayne however when his opportunity arose, did what he does, he ran at goal and hit a thunderbolt of a strike but did it fall out of the keepers hands and over the line ??? Who knows but Jamie made sure all everyone knew was it ended in the back of the net. Now as I only predicted Jamie would score a hat-trick we’re giving this one to Shayne ! Jamie definitely tried to claim it and who can blame him, I’ll let you boys fight that one out for yourselves but the record books says……. Goal to Shayne !! I’m pretty sure we’re not going to get any arguments from Sharon however as I’ve been reliably informed you missed 3 of the four goals scored chatting to others and not taking notice ?? I did struggle to believe this however as in my experience women surely don’t talk all the way through football matches…. Do they lol…..??
4-0 was how it ended. Another fantastic result at a great venue. Once again ALL the boys did us all proud and they just seem to be getting better and better each week. Man of the match clearly had to go to Jamie who’s work rate, desire and passion was what every other player needs to aspire to. Fantastic today and long may it continue.
Now 3 weeks off, get the lads rested and ready for what’s sure to be a great and competitive season ahead which I’m sure we’re all looking forward to, no one more so than Brendan and I.
Anyone that’s away have a great holiday and I look forward to seeing you all again at training on Friday 23rd August (Brendan to confirm).
