Hearts where broken at the death of this wonderfully competitive game but the Woodlands can feel proud of their efforts against a very accomplished Barnby Dunn side. With the fixture changed to South Park it was possible some of the home support may not have been aware and were forced to watch other games taking place, however those that made it were rewarded with a footballing spectacle.
Several changes were made following the 8-3 mauling in Thorne recently and these were deemed justified as the home side pressed early. Collins had a couple of notable chances, as did Maundrill and Jackson but the chance of the first half came when Greaves struck the bar with a tremendous free-kick. As the game wore on, the away side began to impose themselves but the back line stood firm, some great saves from Cook and fine defending from Costello, Cannon, Barker and Will O’Donnell keeping the scores level. O’Donnell had to be placed by big brother James, as his blistered feet became too much for him to bear midway through the second half.
With full time approaching Barnby Dunn almost capitalised on a rare error but that would have been tough on the Goole side. Extra time came and Woodlands were forced to make a number of changes due to fatigue and prior engagements. With five minutes on the clock Barnby Dunn took the lead. Fine passing culminating in a crisp finish which gave Cook no chance. It remained that way until the second half of extra time when the Barmby keeper could only parry a Jackson shot to the feet of Dave O’Donnell, who duly did the rest. With the game ebbing and flowing, it was fitting that it was a moment of brilliance that decided matters. An innocuous looking challenge from the otherwise flawless Cannon was penalised. With five minutes of the game remaining Dunne produced a wonder goal, bending his free-kick over the wall to win it for the away side.
Jackson went close late on but it wasn’t to be and the game ended another route to silverware. On the balance of play it was probably deserved but the Woodlands can take a great deal of credit for their efforts, knowing they pushed their visitors all the way.
Pink productions 2008
