If I could sum up todays performance before writing a match report, here it is:
The oppositions biggest cheer and celebration came in the 55th minute, when they finally managed to tackle our Wing Wizard Finley… that’s how good the Reds were today.
Both teams started brightly, but it was Redditch who were looking more of an attacking threat. Their problem was, JP was in absolutely no mood to let them have their way, and if by any chance they managed to sneak an opportunity, Harrison clutched the ball with such comfort that even Harry Kane would’ve been concerned about finding the net today. Honestly, JP in that first half was as good a defensive performance as you’ll see this season wherever you go. Once Redditch became more frustrated, the Hampton opportunities started to come… a great burst from Rushy down the left where he pushed it across the box, only for Oscar to hit a tame effort at the keeper… trying to be too safe rather than believe in his shooting capabilities there, and a let off for Redditch. Hampton were now on the front foot and Harrisons monster kicks were causing Redditch all sorts of problems, as Harry squeezed one through to Rushy who again got the ball in the box but this time Oscar’s shot went just wide.
Finally a breakthrough when JP hooked one wide for Fin to attack, and then finished confidently to put us 1-0 up. Well deserved. Hampton kept going and some more great work from Fin who got the ball across the box, where Oscar was on hand to slot home at the back post. Now we’re cooking, and we weren’t done yet… Again some great work from Rushy, pulling the ball back and Zach Sanders was on hand to unleash one and grab his first of the season. 3-0 and a breathtaking first half came to a close.
Didn’t want the lads to get too carried away at half time, as we know how quickly these games can turn, and fair play to them, they really stuck at it second half with a disciplined display. We maintained our threat but also stayed solid, with both Josh’s working excellently either side of JP, and Harrison making things look so simple in goal. We still carved out some dangerous chances, with Kielan going close with a header, Rushy going close again and Zach Sanders almost squeezing another but for a good save from the keeper… however 3-0 looked to be how it would stay.
Then Redditch had their moment of the game, where 3, yes 3, lads closed down Fin who was flying down the wing for the 49th time today, and finally managed to stop him, with high 5s and celebrations all over the place.
Their problem was, Fin wasn’t done yet, brushed himself down and got back down the wing, got a cross in which the keeper spilled, and who was there to notch number 14 for the season… Rushy!
4-0 and a fully deserved victory, where we’re 4/4 at home in the league now, incredible stuff.
I know I say it a lot, but I could’ve given MOTM to several players today, in particular JP & FIN can consider themselves unlucky not to pick up the award, and also Harrison having such an assured display with awesome kicking, plus Oscar having his best game for a while to name a few.
However, Rushy, with yet another goal and assist, was simply unplayable today. That’s 20 goal contributions for the season now for him (14/6) and his second MOTM award fully deserved.
Next week we have Rubery away, who will be seeking revenge for our 4-3 win at home, as I’m sure others will now be looking and taking us seriously because on our day, this reds team are the real deal.
UP THE REDS ??
