Witton Albion JFC

After the cup exploits last weekend it was back to the league this week with the thirteenth game of the season against Barnton FC Juniors. The Warriors cruised to an 11:1 victory in the previous meeting between the two teams back at the beginning of October. But this game was far from that walk over. A lacklustre warm up was followed by a lethargic game which the Warriors were very fortunate to win 2:1. Barnton have certainly improved in the last two months and will be very disappointed not to have got something out of this game.

Complacency may have played a part but the game started very slowly with the Warriors not looking like their usually busy selves and allowing the Barnton players far too much time on the ball. The fast tempo was missing and for long periods of the first half Barnton looked like the better team. The Warriors defence was continually sitting too deep and the reluctance to push higher up the pitch was inviting Barnton’s offensive players into our half. Barton had the upper hand in midfield and took a well-deserved lead in the 24th minute. With Witton struggling to clear the ball out of our half a Barnton player hit a looping shot from distance over the defensive line and over Mason into the back of the goal.

In the first half there were few Witton goal scoring opportunities of note. From a Witton corner Callum had a header which was comfortably saved by the Barnton keeper. It took until the 28th minute to create another chance but Robbie’s tame shot was saved.

Half time 0:1.

After the half time team talk the Warriors started the second half with a little bit more purpose. Harry and Robbie exchanged a one-two to put Robbie in a position to test the keeper but he shot wide of the goal.

With Witton labouring against a motivated Barnton team it was looking like our unbeaten record this season was going to be surrendered. As the second half advanced Witton were getting a foothold on ball possession but were struggling to open up the well marshalled Barnton defence.

With just five minutes remaining a rare Witton shot on goal by Harley forced the Barnton goalkeeper into action, he was only able to block the shot and the rebound hit an advancing Callum and rebounded into the net. Callum knew little about it but will take the credit for the goal.

In the final five minutes the Warriors finally came to life. After numerous off side decisions going against them, Harry beat the off side trap following a punt forward. Racing on goal he steadied himself but the keeper made a double save at his feet.

In the last minute Ewean’s pass forward gave Brad the opportunity to run down the left wing. The Barnton keeper rushed out of this goal to intercept but missed the tackle allowing Brad to opportunity to shoot. With the dipping ball dropping in front of the goal Robbie raced forward to make sure the ball hit the net.

It is often said that the measure of a good team is that they can find a way of winning when they don’t play well. That is exactly what the Warriors managed today.

Man of the match was awarded to Harley who thoroughly deserved the accolade and was one of a few players to put 100% into his play today.

Next weekend’s game is the quarter-final Presidents Cup tie against Grappenhall Sports U12 Gladiators. A much better performance will be required for that game against a team who are top of the third division. We are sure the Warriors will raise their game for this challenge.