Boots Wednesday finished their 2012 pre-season with a hard-fought victory over Butler Benfica of Division Three. With several people in new positions and a sprinkling of debutants and new players throughout the team, it took some time for Boots to find their rhythm, and it was Butler who had the best chances of the opening thirty minutes, with Phil forced to clear his lines or save with an outstretched palm as their forwards occasionally punctured the defence. As Boots grew into the game they began to create chances, and Ian snatched at a few long range shots, Griffin hit the far post with a beautiful curling corner, Patto blazed a long range volley miles over the bar, and Luke (with the best effort of the half) had his shot blocked on the line by a defender. Sicky, Griff and Ash all did well in defence alongside Brett (and later Patto), while Justin offered a calm head in midfield alongside Simon to release Frumpy, Luke T, Blythe or Rich on the wings. A knee injury to Blythe (who is now on crutches) was the only negative of the half for Boots.
The second half slowly opened up as both teams pushed for a goal, and although Butler opened the scoring (nodding home a corner with a strong header at the back post) it was Boots who had the better chances throughout the half as Brett blazed a shot over the fence, Patto struck a volley straight at the keeper and Luke T and Matt both had shots blocked. Eventually a well-worked throw from Simon H found its way to Luke B at the near post, and he flicked the ball across goal where Matt was on hand to volley home a debut goal. Minutes later Boots found themselves in the lead when Ross was tumbled on the edge of the area, and he then sent an unstoppable free kick over the wall and into the top right corner with the keeper rooted to the spot! Boots were denied a third goal when Ash’s free-kick hit the post and Ian punched the loose ball into the net, but despite some late pressure from Butler, the defence stood strong and saw out the victory.
The friendly was also the final game for Rich “He Scores From Crosses” Allen, who is moving to London on Saturday. Rich’s Boots Wednesday career stats stand at 23 games, 3 goals, 6 assists and 2 MOM awards. Thanks for playing and best of luck!
