Hucknall Sports U12's Saturday 2 Arnold Town Blue 6

Saturday 25th March 2006

SPORTS LOSE OUT TO TITLE CHASING ARNOLD

Sports eventually succumbed to title chasing Arnold but a first half to be proud of reminded the champions elect that this was to be no walk over. 

From the kick off a long through ball from Jordan Burch found Thomas Scarbro and he made no mistake putting Sports one up within twenty seconds. With Arnold looking shell shocked Sports continued to press with Danny Stenson, Nicky Robinson and Billy Edwards controlling midfield and Arnold’s attempts to get back into the game were comfortably dealt with.

Arnold finally sparked into life but their resulting attacks were dealt with as Sports worked as a team to help out the back line. When Arnold did get through Thomas Lambert and Howard Howells kept the forwards quiet and some tough tackling and timely interceptions from Jordan Burch meant Sports were heading into the break with a slender lead. 

With one minute left of the first half Clayton George went on amazing run only to be brought down 25 yards out. Sports sensibly left the resulting free kick to Josh Leatherland and he majestically curled the ball into the top corner to put Sports two up. 

A half time team talk reminded the lads that they were playing against the best team in the league and with a strong wind favouring the away team Sports knew they had to battle to the end. 

The second half started as the first half ended and with their managers half time words still in their heads Arnold pressed for the goal that would get them back into the game and this finally came as a well worked move finally beat the excellent Buster Simpson. Arnold continued to press and deservedly levelled the game as their strength and pace finally paid dividends. At two all Arnold looked like they had finally discovered their form but Josh Leatherland was denied a second by a last ditch tackle as Sports came again.  

Arnold’s thirds goal finally seemed to kill off Sports and as the wind blew stronger Arnold added three more goals to give the score line a flattering look. Injured Clayton George had to be replaced by Jason Harris. 

Despite the defeat, Sports should be proud of themselves and if Arnold thought they were going to demolish Sports as they did earlier this season they were wrong. Arnold’s manager gracefully accepted that his team had needed to dig deep and with his team celebrating promotion took time to congratulate Sports on their outstanding spirit and endeavour. 

Man of the match went to Nicky Robinson who finally converted the promise he shows in 5-a-side to the bigger pitch, but well done to all the lads who in defeat covered themselves in glory.