Not GOODs Enough for Woodlands
This game had been billed as the clash of the season, in the second division at any rate, however it turned into little more than a training exercise f or the Goods Office, as they saw the Woodlands off with ease.
From the start it was the visitors who made the most of a bad pitch, with some neat passing that left the home side chasing shadows for long periods. Both sides traded early blows with Whittaker going close for the Goods Office and Maundrill likewise for the Woodlands. The first goal came somewhat fortuitously but was richly deserved, Whittaker again turning the home defence in knots, skewed his shot but it fell at the feet of McMahon who finished well from close range.
The same player doubled the lead shortly after with a fine finish, to effectively end the tie as a contest. Such was the away teams superiority that they continued to press, to put the game beyond doubt before half time. Had it not been for Cook this could well have happened. As it was the Woodlands continued to probe forward but the chances were too infrequent and when they were through the Goods Office keeper was more than equal to the threat.
Half time team talks will have contrasted wildly, although the same emotions perhaps communicated to the teams for different reasons. Disappointment for the away side that they hadn’t won the game by half time and disappointment for the home team at the lack of passion and leadership.
The second half started the same as the first, with the Goods Office taking the game to the Woodlands. The home side huffed and puffed and created isolated chances but it was never going to be enough. Man of the match Whittaker put the game beyond reach with a piece of exquisite skill. After racing clear of his marker there was the last man to beat, he did this by lifting the ball over his head, a la Gazza’s against Scotland. Soon it was four and quickly five.
The home team effectively gave up at this stage and the score line could have been much worse. Such was their dominance it would not have been an unfair reflection of proceedings. The Goods Office will proceed to the last four and perhaps count themselves as favourites for the trophy, The Woodlands have to try and salvage some pride via their league position.
