Report

This was probably going to be the hardest test yet for the lads against an estabilished division 1 side who narrowly missed out on promotion last season.  Also the test was made that little harder with the injury to Josh P. who will be missing for 2 weeks.  Other lads were also carring knocks with the fittest 11 players chosen.  This game was originally an away fixture but was switched to ours because of the 'Great North Run'.

Pumas were for a change the quickest out the blocks & went 1 nil within the 1st minute of the game.  Good build up play & Curtis from close range chipped it over the keeper & was going in but Jake done the right thing by making sure.  Pumas carried on their assault of the Houghton goal.  Jay was very unlucky after being put through, chipped the on rushing keeper but only managed to hit the bar.  Nathan went very close 2 times, Jay had a sight of goal but rather than being selfish decided to pass, Jamie shot wide. 

It was felt more goals were needed while we were on top.  Houghton then started to get a foothold in to the game & drew level after Josh brought down their player to concede a penalty.  Both teams were evenally matched at this stage.  During the half we had the pleaasure of not 1 but 2 Red Arrows fly passes, you won't get that anywhere else on your travels!

The 2nd half finished like the 1st with both teams even.  Houghton went ahead after another cheap free kick was conceded.  The ball was whipped in for their player to nod home.  We had our chances to pull level with Jake unlucky not to connect well with his head with the goal beckoning, Nathan again going close with the 1 most noticeable a shot straight at the keeper.  We finally pulled level from a penalty of our own.  The away fans went mental with a parent kicking a ball onto the pitch.  Nathan, cool as you like fired home.  Had a chance near the end to steal all 3 points but Ryan blazed a free kick over the bar.  A mention has to go to Josh in goal who once again was fantastic  & made amends for his earlier error.  There was some good hard working performances today from M.O.M. Scott, Jay who chased every lost cause, Jake & Jamie.

M.O.M.  Scott