Letchworth Albion came from a goal down in the first half to eventually see off newly formed Athletico Arlesey 4-2 in a thrilling match down at Archers Way. With this being the first of an epic Athletico trilogy, Albion were keen to make a statement of intent for the forthcoming fixtures.
Letchworth Albion looked sharp in the first fifteen, thanks to a well-uted team huddle-hurrah orchestrated by Albion front man, Hunky Henry. Early dominance saw chances come and go for the Albion but they were then unfortunate to go behind with a goal against the run of play.
Alex Neil made his first start for the Albion and put in a solid shift alongside the back line veterans of Ed Greenhill, Ian Berrie & Chris Lodge.
Albion continued to push forward throughout the half but were unable to level the match despite a series of chances and free kicks testing the Athletico ‘keeper.
Half Time: Letchworth Albion 0 – Athletico Arlesey 1.
Half time saw the introduction of Matt Morris who slotted in at centre midfield, allowing captain Rikki Holland to roam further forward. The tactical switch proved to be a touch of managerial genius from Albion’s pint sized manager Mr Chiu. Albion’s early dominance in the second half was quickly rewarded with Rikki Holland winning a penalty after a clumsy challenge from the Athletico back line. Hunky Henry provided the finish.
Albion went 2-1 up soon after with winger James Brandon finishing off a well worked series of passes from the Albion. Avid farmer Brandon was showing no signs of tiredness despite revelations of a pre match “double ploughing” of his field.
The rampant Albion continued their total domination of the second half with prolific striker Ian Holyer getting in on the goal action to make it 3-1, finishing from close range following a cross from James “Chopper” Parkin.
Maverick ‘keeper Grant Whittaker put in a scintillating display with a number of acrobatic saves, much to the pleasure of an anonymous lady friend up in the stands. It’s refreshing to see that Grant has put his milk problems behind him, and is clearly enjoying his football once more. The Albion showman even managed to wow the capacity crowd with a nonchalant spin on the ball in the closing stages of the game. Watch out for it on this week’s showboat.
Mr Chiu introduced Ben Johnson & Allan Woods (still sporting astro-turfs) mid-way through the second half and the fresh legs gave the Albion the extra edge to finish off the game in style.
However, Albion didn’t make it easy for themselves in the final quarter of the game, with Athletico grabbing a lifeline back into the game to make it 3-2 after some sloppy marking far past from a corner.
Albion quickly responded however to seal the win, with Ian Holyer claiming his second of the game to make it 4-2. Tickaboo Mr Holyer. The Rotherham man was unlucky late on not to win a penalty after being hacked down in the box but thankfully this didn’t affect the final outcome of the match.
Full Time : Letchworth Albion 4 – Athletico Arlesey 2.
