Norman entertained Old Catton for their first league fixture for 4 weeks. Alain E-M was missing through illness with Thomas M deputising, Connor S dropped to the bench with Jordan G making his first full start.
Old Catton kicked off on a blustery, sharp winters afternoon. Early exchanges were competitive to say the least and this was to be the pattern for the whole game, the referee showing extreme leniency at times. Norman were soon in control of the game, having some periods of prolonged possession and terroritorial advantage. Looking comfortable in midfield, the Norman back 4 were looking a little shaky on the ball, guilty on dwelling on it at times. Norman forced a handful of corners but were unable to capitalise. At the other end, Joe P was again in fine form with what little he had to do, Old Catton chances were kept to a minimum. The half ended after a period of Norman pressure. Half Time Norman 0 Old Catton 0.
The second half began as the first half had been with Norman dominating and dictating play. A corner was awarded which went out ofr another corner this time on the left. Shane E floated a great ball into the box and Isaac M rose highest meeting the ball, guiding it into the net to give Norman a deserved lead. The lead was short lived, lasting only 2 minutes, when a loose ball was struck from inside the box, ricocheting around where it was poked home. This seemed yo knock Norman back a bit and this was further compounded when a stunning struck from outside the box was smashed into the goal by the Old Catton captain. Norman rose to the challenge and this was evident when the determined Dillon R equalised. An Isaac M corner came in where Reece M shot was blocked, it fell to Dillon R whose shot was pushed back out, Dillon R rose to head the ball over the keeper only for it to come back off the bar where Dillon R used to strength to nod the dropping ball into the goal from close range. Norman gained possession immediately from the restart and after a flowing move, Shane E fed the ball inside to Jordan G who crossed for Jack R to tap home from 6 yards with 18minutes remaining. Norman seemed in control and heading to the win, but with 4 minutes remaining Old Catton played a half clearance forward, a Catton forward knocked the ball passed the advancing Norman keeper into the net but the linesman flag was raised. After a brief discussion with the linesman, the ref awarded the goal. Full Time Norman 3 Old Catton 3. MOM Shane E.
A game that almost had it all, and those who were present will know exactly what I mean. A brave performance from the lads and could not really ask more of them in difficult conditions. The lads showed great character to come back into the game from behind after leading at one stage. The only disappointment was the result, a point was the very minimum Norman deserved. There was a time when a draw against Old Catton would of been a good result for us, but this is another sign of just how far we have come to regard a draw as disappointing. Old Catton will be happy to draw with Norman Wanderers. Vincere Aude!!!!
