After a most frustrating Utd game, with a few more spectators appearing, and the sun trying to work its way through the mist, I settled in to watch a City side who had already sparkled at times during the first half of the season and become remarkably difficult to beat.

 

To start with they showed just these qualities, as Scott and Seb gave them the platform to build upon. The first half quickly turned into the Seb show, as he made fabulous tackle after tackle after tackle. He obviously decided to adopt a none shall pass approach to the game, and to be honest very few did in the first half. This created the opportunity for high energy midfield to feed the forwards in the form of Josh and Thomas. Both of which ran the line well, although Josh appeared to be skating on ice on occasions and might have been regretting not wearing studs. So it was a little surprising when Woodbridge scored. I’ll admit they passed the ball well, and yes they where well organised but they didn’t dominate and George seemed in control between the posts. However, just like earlier in the day, they did take the chance when they got it.

 

In reply the usually prolific City team seemed to generate chances but missed that final, clinical touch. As the first half progressed Kevin became increasing animated on the touch line trying to rally his troops.

 

The second half continued in the same vane. With Dylan seemed to have the ball stuck to his foot as he side stepped tackles. However, he was playing on the left wing, so after beating half the Woodbridge team to get to the by-line, he then had to work back up the pitch, beating the same Woodbridge players to cross it in with his right foot.

 

While at the other end the Woodbridge forwards where starting to display Michael Owen in his hay-day qualities, the few chances they got, which George didn’t quickly smoother, they slotted home. So an odd result given the chances and the commitment the team showed. Still lots of positives to take into the Cup game on Saturday, and perhaps a little bit of shooting practice on the Thursday before.

 

The man of the match was difficult chose this week, with George just scraping it against good performances by many in the team. However, George did have a good game, making some great stops, didn’t do much wrong and crucially he displayed a calming influence at the back.

 

Player of the Match: George Able
Report Written By:  Andy Ramsden