Match report by Matt Court
County Cup fever once again hit Plumtree with a game against Huthwaite Ath. in the last 16. Huthwaite were a new side this season to the Mansfield Leagues, who had yet to lose so we knew a tough game would be on the cards. Upon arrival at the ground we realised it would all be a whole lot tougher, as the pitch was on a slope, long grass, mole hills and stank of sh*t. The changing rooms weren't much better, and I'm sure they double up at refrigerators if the temperature was anything to go by. But we kitted up, raring to get back into a bit of football and keen to put our recent indifferent form behind us.
A rousing pre-match team talk commenced and captain CK made the choice for us to kick up hill first half. Huthwaite had the better of the opening exchanges, the downhill advantage meaning the defence had to sit deeper than they would like. They created a number of chances which they generally put wide or over the bar. As the first half progressed, the midfield battle started to be won by Toz and Matt, defence had the measure of the Huthwaite strikers and Omar and Troy started to cause hassle up front. This resulted in chances being created, Matt shooting wide following a run through the midfield, Omar and Chris also coming close. The chances paid off when a good break through the midfield resulted in Jonny causing the defence hassle and forcing a save, as the ball was bobbling around Troy was quick to put it back across the box only for Matt to put in in the back of the net from 3 yards. A well deserved goal and hard fought one nil lead at half time.
One change was made at half time, Ryan coming on for Omar to partner Troy up front and their pace really provided Plumtree with the upper hand going downhill. Even Toz looked fast in the second half!!! They'd also made a few changes trying to strengthen up the midfield however Plumtree continued to dominate. We were rewarded when Troy latched onto a powerful Toz header, broke away from his defender and lashed the ball across the box only to be put in the back of the net from one of their players. This made Huthwaite's heads dropped and Plumtree started to play some real football, passing the ball well, keeping position and working hard for each other and the team. Troy and Ryan continued to run their defence ragged and a one two between the both of them released Troy for his well earned goal. Jonny Rowe completed the win, as Troy once again found himself beating the defender, putting the ball across for Jonny to bury in the back of the net.
Really enjoyed this game, great football and great attitude from everyone. I look forward to this continuing into league performances. Man of the match, has to be Troy, had a hand in every goal and worked his socks off. Everyone had a blinder though. GET IN, and bring on the quarter finals!!!
