The pitch at Huntingdon was covered in dog shit, metaphorically and literally, Buckden putting on their most lacklustre performance of the season. Coming off the back of the performance of the season last week it was obvious the lads didn't prepare and focus properly, showing a lack of composure, probably exposing the lack of experience in the side. Huntingdon were always going to be up for this one and did a complete number on the management teams tactics by going all out to dominate the middle of the park. They had learnt from the 4-1 drubbing back at the BVC that trying to match Buckden in a footballing sense was going to end in tears and instead concentrated on dominating the physical battles (successfully). Going into the game there were a few changes with Milton running late being replaced by Oli and Lovey preferred to Dom to fit the 4-3-3 set up. A disjointed start, with no real warmup, players running late and forgetting kit and everyone wanting to do the team talk was exacerbated by the harsh conditions and difficult pitch. The poor start spilled onto the pitch with no-one really getting themselves on the ball or using it with any quality. Brammers had a few chances coming in from the wide position, but being unfamiliar with the role didn't get many balls in the box or display his usually good first touch. Several times the midfield found themselves in space with options but the decision making was poor, slow and more often than not the pass was over or under hit. Huntingdon weren't covering themselves with glory either but went ahead from the spot after CD, making his trademark last ditch tackle - took just too much of the man before the ball. The game rolled on with little pattern and little goal mouth action other than a header Oli should have done better with and a ball across the face from Woo that Lovey could only get his toe to.
Half time - this was one of those games where you need players to get each other going and get a few rollickings flying around, however the talk was a little subdued and confidence seemed low. Milton came on for Oli whose pace wasn't being showcased - to provide a bit of movement and pick up the loose midfielder. Not a great deal happened second half, buckden conceded again, softly and apart from a Milton penalty miss didn't have a meaningful chance.
A disappointing outing but one which was a good learning experience for a young team, playing away from home against physical side who were determined to avenge their defeat to their higher placed opposition.
There were a few bright spots, Weitzel and Browny in particular doing everything which could be asked of them in the full back berths and Adam and Shane looking very promising players to have on board. CD and Josh didn't take a backward step but were just overrun on the day.
It is the opinion of the writer that Buckden should get back to their short passing game, playing from the back even when under pressure and the results will look after themselves. A week off now and time to get heads screwed on for the run in and show some bouncebackability.
