Audlem FC Match Report 2nd May 2018

We are now mopping up matches lost in the poor weather.

As we gather – again with an excellent turnout of players, and this after a day of work and no time for the evening meal. Dedication which is so good to see.

And on that subject, as I prepare the changing room and kits etc, we have Pete Jones our skipper, arrive having been collected by Kev Mort. I post the photo of him – and his poor leg. The cage will be on him for many months to come. He is being treated at Broadgreen Hospital near to Liverpool – a specialised hospital for such multiple fractures as Pete's. Three breaks!! He will then go onto a cast after the cage- which has to be seen and adjusted each week by the special unit. He cannot even think of kicking a ball until August 2019 – if he ever does.

But to the game.

This was due to be played in Sandbach, but as the days went by it was obvious that their pitch was exceedingly damp. The upshot was on Saturday afternoon, they – Sandbach F C – accepted our invite to play here and so avoid another lost game. Referee is Des Evans, head referee of the league, who is in charge as we kick off at 6.30 to try to ensure we have enough light at the end of the game. Sandbach above us in the league and are a good team. Very few spectators here as the build up to a very big game in Rome gets underway.

1830 Fast start as 22 men testing each other with fast play.

1835 First free kick tom them.40 yards out. Fierce shot fly's over the bar.I always think it best shoot for the feet of the wall as they invariably jump up!! Connor Baxter in goal really playing so very well as he saves beautifully.

1845 And we get a tiny shower of light rain but goes away fast.Play fast and furious but all the play is over on the Shroppie side. Game is 50/50 as each side seeks dominance. Slanting sun as it drops down over the far side of the cemetery a tad awkward for Connor in goal. But he is pulling off save after save. And his goal kicks are very fine too.

HALF TIME

We come off even-stevens. Very short break as most want to see the excellent Liverpool team playing versus Roma.

Just a comment on this vibrant village: Boys and Girls on Skate boards, Tennis being played, Youth Club for boys and girls in the new annexe in full swing and a football match in full speed. Great example of the superb community.

Back to the game. Very evenly matched at the time. Managers play subs and we use all five waiting on the bench.

THEN we concede a penalty!!! Sandbach line up; Player steps up -- and fires high over the bar. Phew. We have two players yellow carded!.

FULL TIME

Referee blows for full time at 2000.

A game that was so evenly matched. A fair result at 0-0. A point to us.

Man of the Match – Connor Baxter. Superb game by him.

We invite Sandbach back to the Lord C for traditional chip butties.

Our next game is our last home match, this Sunday 6th May as we play White Lion. Then the very last one of the season away to Haslington.

Ralph Warburton, AFC

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