Report

NorthallertonTown FC       3 

 Washington Football Club 2   

Saturday 28 April 2012

 Washington travelled to North Yorkshire last Saturday for the second time this season, after losing there narrowly 3 2 back in October in the Ernest Armstrong Cup. Manager Richie Latimer was able to name an unchanged team for the final game of the 2011/2012 Season.  Washington almost made a perfect start when, in the opening minute, Lee Hamilton had the ball in the net after a great run and pass from Chris Tate, but the effort was ruled offside. Hamilton again came close when he shot just wide. The game was being fiercely contested in midfield with Nick Evans collecting a booking for a ‘mistimed’ challenge. Both sides came close to an opener with Tate chipping just wide for the visitors, and then Butterworth breaking clear on goal, but then shooting straight at Washington keeper’ Chris Bannon. There was no score at the break. Five minutes into the second half Northallerton opened the scoring. A great run and ‘pull back’ by Anderson set up Butterworth for a ‘tap in’. Northallerton were now in control and in the 57^th minute scored a second. A thumping shot from home skipper Parkin gave Bannon no chance to save. On the hour mark the home side extended their lead. A well-struck shot from Butterworth hit the underside of the crossbar and Anderson turned in the rebound. Within a minute Washington had pulled a goal back. A foul on Hamilton gave the visitors a penalty, and skipper Michael Latimer converted at the second attempt. The Ref ordered the first successful spot-kick retaken after ‘player encroachment’. Washington pushed players forward and in the 76^th minute scored a second goal. Good work by player/manager Richie Latimer set up brother Michael, who scored on the rebound after home keeper Craggs saved his initial shot. The home side were now under pressure and it seemed certain Washington would be awarded a second penalty when Craggs clearly pulled R. Latimer to the ground, but the Ref’ waved away the visitor’s appeals. Northallerton held on to win. Despite this narrow defeat, the Washington players can be proud of their efforts in this match and throughout the season. Well Done lads.