In a gripping league away match at Homer Hill on 6th October 2024, Roebuck emerged victorious with a scoreline of 3-2 against Netherton Colts Seniors Reserves. The match, which kicked off at 10:45 am, showcased a blend of skill, determination, and a touch of controversy, culminating in a hard-fought win for Roebuck.
Roebuck lined up in a 4-5-1 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for quick transitions into attack. Jamie Hyde took his position as the goalkeeper, shielded by a back four consisting of Oliver Parkes on the right, Kevin Burns and Joe Walton as central defenders, and Bradley Hackett on the left. The midfield was packed with five players: Daniel Lander on the right, Alistair Brown and Dan Lees centrally, with Michael Woodall and Corey Rogers providing width on the left. Up front, Christopher Hunt was tasked with leading the line as the lone striker. The formation aimed to control the midfield battle while exploiting the flanks for attacking opportunities.
The substitutes for Roebuck included Lewis Perry and Lewis Harrison, who would later play pivotal roles in the match.
The match began with an early setback for Roebuck when Joe Walton received a yellow card in the 14th for bringing down Netherton’s striker in the box. Netherton Colts took advantage of the situation, scoring from the penalty spot to take a 1-0 lead. Roebuck struggled to find their rhythm, and in the 25th minute, Kevin Burns was cautioned for a bad tackle, further complicating their defensive efforts.
As the first half progressed, tensions rose, and Jamie Hyde was shown a yellow card in the 33rd minute for offensive language, reflecting the mounting pressure on the Roebuck side. However, just before half-time, Alistair Brown equalised for Roebuck in the 44th minute, tapping in a close-range effort following a well-placed cross from Corey Rogers. The joy was short-lived, as Netherton Colts responded immediately, scoring again in the dying moments of the first half to lead 2-1 at the break.
The second half saw Roebuck make tactical changes, with Lewis Perry and Lewis Harrison coming on for Oliver Parkes and Daniel Lander respectively in the 64th minute. The substitutions aimed to inject fresh energy into the team as they sought to overturn the deficit.
In the 66th minute, another yellow card was issued, although the recipient was not specified, indicating the match's increasingly heated nature. The intensity continued, with another yellow card shown in the 70th minute, again without a named player.
Roebuck's persistence paid off in the 71st minute when Christopher Hunt scored a crucial equaliser, converting a close-range effort after receiving a short pass from Dan Lees. The match was finely poised at 2-2, and both teams pushed for a decisive goal.
As the match approached its conclusion, yellow cards continued to be brandished, with one shown in the 73rd minute and another in the 81st minute, maintaining the match's fiery atmosphere. Christopher Hunt received a yellow card for unsporting behaviour in the 88th minute, adding to the drama.
In a thrilling finale, Lewis Harrison emerged as the hero for Roebuck, scoring the winning goal in the 90th minute with a well-placed shot inside the box, assisted by Christopher Hunt. This late strike sealed a remarkable comeback for Roebuck, who finished the match with a 3-2 victory.
The referee, Ian Bate, managed a match filled with intensity and emotion, ensuring that the game flowed despite the numerous cautions. Roebuck's resilience and tactical adjustments proved decisive, earning them a vital three points in their league campaign.
