Chemfica faced a challenging match against Old Novocastrians at the Newburn Leisure Centre on 22 September 2024, with the game kicking off at 10:30 am. The home side ultimately fell to a narrow 3-2 defeat in what was an intense league clash.
Chemfica adopted a 4-5-1 formation, designed to bolster their midfield and provide defensive stability. Christopher Beers took his place in goal, while the backline consisted of Louis Edwards and David Shotton on the right and left flanks respectively, with Ali Harris and Shaun Pearson forming the central defensive partnership. The midfield was packed with Jake McPherson on the right, Jon Batty and Josh Leonard occupying central roles, and Jake Newton on the left. Joe Wilkinson led the line as the solitary striker, with an expectation to run the channels and provide an outlet for the midfielders.
The substitutes for Chemfica included Mpumi Nyembe, James Nicholson, Liam Heenan, Charlie Glasgow, and Ben Hannan.
The match began with an explosive start, and it was the Old Novocastrians who drew first blood. In the 17th minute, they took advantage of a goalmouth scramble, scoring from close range with a well-placed right-footed effort. This early setback prompted Chemfica to regroup and attempt to build momentum in their favour.
As the teams headed for halftime, the scoreline remained 1-0 in favour of the visitors. Tensions mounted as Chemfica aimed to find a way back into the game.
The second half commenced, and the visitors struck again in the 63rd minute. An incisive move saw Old Novocastrians find space inside the box, and they capitalised with another right-footed goal, extending their lead to 2-0.
Tempers flared shortly after, with Louis Edwards receiving a yellow card in the 67th minute for a poor tackle, reflecting the growing frustration within Chemfica. Tactical adjustments followed, with George Wright replaced by Mpumi Nyembe, and Jake Newton making way for James Nicholson moments later.
In the 71st minute, the referee issued a yellow card to Shaun Pearson for dissent, further highlighting Chemfica's mounting woes as they struggled to stay in the contest.
Just a few minutes later, the Old Novocastrians made it 3-0 in the 75th minute, leaving Chemfica with a formidable task ahead. However, responding with grit, Chemfica remained determined to salvage the match.
In a tactical shift, Joe Wilkinson was replaced by Liam Heenan in the 74th minute, followed by Charlie Glasgow coming on for Jon Batty in the 78th minute, as Chemfica sought to inject fresh energy into their attack.
With time ticking away, a breakthrough finally arrived for Chemfica in the 85th minute. An incisive short pass from Jake McPherson found James Nicholson, who displayed skill and composure to score a stunning solo goal with his left foot, reducing the deficit to 3-1.
In a dramatic finale, James Nicholson again emerged as the hero, converting a penalty with his right foot in the 89th minute. The two quick goals from Nicholson injected hope into the home side, bringing the score to a thrilling 3-2 as the final minutes approached.
Despite their valiant efforts and a spirited response, Chemfica could not find an equaliser. The match ended with Old Novocastrians taking all three points, leaving Chemfica to reflect on a game filled with chances and moments that could have turned the tide in their favour.
