Witton Albion JFC

A midnight pitch inspection (yes, really!) led to Witton v Frodsham Park being one of just 4 matches in the county played on a gorgeous winter morning with soft, springy, sun dappled green turf awaiting the teams. Unfortunately, the crucial keys-to-the-blimmin-garage-that-holds-all-the-equipment had gone missing. This led to a comedy of mini goals being erected, taken down, big goals up, beleaguered cricket club chairman frantically poking random keys in door, incorrect match reports, the game is delayed- oh no it isn’t…..luckily Frodsham Park chief Graham was forgiving of the dozy Witton manager...who spent most of the morning with his head in his hands.

Despite all the shenanigans, the teams lined up for the FA-approved kick off time. It was a cagey opening as high flying Frodsham came up against the solid defence marshalled by Noah, who produced another bone-crunching tackle as a “hello” to the opposition. Witton went close with a couple of chances, with one full-length pitch run by Lewis going close but Frodsham swept upfield again and an unfortunate handball led to a penalty. Alex saved the penalty brilliantly but the follow-up was placed home. Witton were pressing up front, Ollie breezed onto the pitch and passed to Thomas for a run in on goal for the equaliser. It was end to end, but Frodsham were pressing hard on the right side, despite some excellent defending from Ewan including a great header. Just before half time, a shot “snuck” in and Witton again had thrown away a great position.

The Albs were straight out on the pitch for the second half and Witton were dominant. On the few times the defence were breached, Elliot J was alert and handling with ease. Luke was providing intent, Finn reeeaally calm at the back as Witton squandered chance after chance. Lewis was beginning to find space in midfield, but a sharp pass from Sergeant Wilko allowed Keegan to ghost into the box, beat two players and smash the ball home. Witton were pressing hard as Theo led the attack, but disaster struck in the last seconds as Witton conceded from a corner…with no time to respond.

The Frodsham Park team, again, were effusive in their praise for a wonderful end to end match. A great game of football, played in the true spirit of football, backed up by a fantastic effort from Jimmy and Steve in helping to set up the goals to make the game happen and a coolly taken effort in taking the pitch down.

Captain’s man of the match: Ewan
Managers’ man of the match: Elliot J
Magic moment: Keegan’s run and shot in the first half…ohhh so close!
Quote of the day: “I will be your glamorous secretary!”