Witton Albion JFC

As the “sun” rose over the Bridgewater Canal, Witton Chief Chris Alexander, with a ringing endorsement from President Obama echoing in his ears, proudly hauled his new giant whiteboard to the outlying pitches at Grappenhall for the first ever competitive game for the Witton Albion Wolves today. Three hours later the remainder of the squad decided to turn up, eagerly jostling each other for a view of the starting line-up as the grumpy manager turned up and started ranting at anyone who would listen. Witton were to employ an attacking 2-4-2/4-2-1-1 formation + goalkeeper or as one veteran supporter termed it “what is going on”.

As is their wont, Witton granted the opposition a goal head start in a fairly lackadaisical opening, however captain Elliot J inspired an awakening with 2 fantastic low saves as Grappenhall dominated. Despite taking a defensive posture, Witton (apart from those early scares) looked pretty comfortable with Tom A and Finn sweeping up and Noah holding the midfield well. Nonetheless, the Wolves princelings began to wake up as Elliot and Luke were learning to link together up front, first Luke broke through, Elliot agonisingly hit the side netting and Keegan hitting a promising free-kick..

The second half opened with yet more rantings from the increasingly shouty manager as he administered first aid from “whiteboard corner”. The Wolves responded, as man of the match Ollie provided a secure basis in defence and Alex started the season with some customary “kamikaze” saves, Lewis, Theo and Ewan were probing down the flanks and at last the ball squirmed free for Thomas to slot home the equaliser. It was now toe to toe time, as the giants of Grappenhall struggled to cope with the quick Witton attacks and the Grappenhall strike force probed; a momentary lapse in marking led to the winning goal direct from a corner. Despite a credible last minute penalty shout (credible as in a two-handed shove to the floor may well merit foul-play), Witton yet again succumbed to their nemesis. “Right, that’s it, they are now our officially our bogey team”, muttered the stony-faced manager at the final whistle, however in reality it was a great game of football between two very different teams who will no doubt continue their friendly rivalry for many years.

Captain’s man of the match: Lewis

Manager’s man of the match: Oliver

Manager’s moment: Double save from Elliot in the first half provided the foundation for a comeback.