MATCH REPORT - SEARCHING FOR AN AWAY VICTORY

Crescent Rovers A 2 v 2 Norton

4th October 2008

(H-T 0-1)

Goals: Ashley Myres 1, Andrew Castle 1 (Pen).

Man of the Match: Ashley Myres

This game was not for the faint hearted full of blooded aggression, obscene gestures and appalling language. This is what Norton expected from Crescent Rovers. On an uneven pitch Norton started well, creating chances in the opening exchanges. However, after a few minutes following successive passages of play it was clear what approach to the game the home side was going to take. Norton forwards Mark Tcheang and Curtis Roberts were both on the receiving end of what one could regard as "brutish" attention after both players were sieved down having gone pass their opponents. However, despite the brutish attention of their opponents Norton took the lead following a long throw from Curtis, was accurately directed into the bottom left corner of the head of Ashley Myres. Norton were in total control, but growing increasingly frustrated with the over physical presence of several of Crescent players. The referee had to stop the game several time to calm down both sets of players. Maybe this “stop start” process helped Crescent get back into a game. From their first attack some 30 minutes into the match Crescent Rovers scored, after keeper Nuno failed to get any distance on the punch from a corner. Consequently, Crescent Rovers managed to bundle the ball over the line with help from Norton’s stalwart Tobrise Chinosa. More chances came and went but by the time the half time interval arrived, Norton should have been 4 or 5 goals up.

A rollicking from the Coach Howard gave Norton the impetuses to attack and get the result they deserved. The second half however was a stalemate affair none of the teams had the upper hand. Crescent Rovers used the wind and slope to their advantage by hitting the crossbar twice with stunning strikes. Norton again had chances to score, but poor decision making kept the score at 1-1. 70-75 mins. Norton were awarded to controversial “ball to hand” penalty. The referee did take his time to award the penalty, but there was no complaint from the home side. A Well taken penalty from Andy Castle put Norton 2-1 in front. However within 7 mins equalised. A Towering header from a cross beat two defenders and the keeper to level the scores again and end the match with both teams sharing the points.

Norton for all theirdetermination and grit could not break down a slow and immobile Crescent Rovers defence. As for Rovers, fair credit to them and their unprofessional, unethical and crude tactics which were effective in stopping us play. In short, few printable words describe the approach Rovers took to this game nevertheless, the return encounter will be eagerly awaited. As for Norton we have to start picking up points on the road to have a chance of progressing to the next tier in league football.


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