Kendal Reserves 1 v Witton Reserves 1
Lancashire League
Friday 11 November 2011
Team: GK Newton, Kendrick, Carter, Davies, Watkins, Randle, Brown, Burgess, Buchan,
Van Hein, Swann
Subs used: Maddock
This was Witton’s 7th consecutive away game. All the players arrived on time after the 84 mile trip up the M6 on a Friday night to Evostik premier north side Kendal. Mark Buchan joined the reserves for much needed time back on the pitch; living near Blackpool - it made sense. Three other players made their debut, Oliver Kendrick, Ryan Brown and Carl Van Hien. Witton playing up the slope in the first half were put under some pressure and it did take some time for everyone to settle down, but settle they did. The weather was shocking all game and the pitch was quick. On 20 mins Luke Watkins, who is really starting to show what he is capable of, playing well every game now, had to be replaced having gone over on his ankle. 17 year old Josh Maddocks replaced him. On half time Buchan nearly scored from distance but the keeper saved well.
Half time Kendal 0 Witton 0.
We wondered how much the slope and weather had helped Kendal in the first period. Well now we were on the front foot, Ryan Brown making several raids down the right, but the final delivery was poor. On one attack the ball went inside to Buchan who set up Swann coming in from the left and Swann scored. Witton should have gone 2 up when Brown should have fed the 3 players making runs into the 6 yard box. Burgess who has been man of the match for several weeks gave the ball away and Kendal equalised. Buchan put through chipped the keeper, but the keeper just touched the ball to send it wide, the ref gave a goal kick?
The closing stages were difficult for both teams as the pitch dug up and was really not acceptable, but the game did finish.
With 4 players making their debut, Buchan getting 90 mins, away from home, the adverse weather conditions, against opposition from a league higher (2 of their 1st team played, Tim Baines CB and Tom Kilifin Striker) , it was a good result. All the players put in a great effort. Mark Buchan was made captain on the night and conducted himself accordingly; talking, encouraging and organising. Well Done Mark. You can do that in the reserves and sometimes you are quite surprised at what you find when you do it. Some players don’t know what to do with the arm band and wear it like a fashion accessory…others step out of the shadows and do become leaders on the pitch, it should be an extension of the manager and what he wants.
Next game Thursday 17 November at HOME.
Witton V Bamber Bridge ko 7.45pm