Witton Albion JFC

Fudge lovers were denied the manager’s home cooked, award winning, produce as the Witton Café was closed down by a last-minute Christening booking. The gloomy gaffer was seen chucking ladders and pegs at the unforgiving nets on a sun-dappled Moss Farm before the game, “what am I going to do with 80 rashers of bacon?” stormed the grumpmeister, who then proceeded to moan loudly at everyone for the duration of the match. Vale Vikings trekked over to pitch number 1, led by Mark and Paula, who were bemoaning the absence of several key players due to the Man United match. There were a few concerns that Lamby might be brought back from retirement to referee the match but luckily the whistle-toting game manager sped up on his bike to start the game on time.

The Vikings cleverly changed ends on the toss, putting the autumnal sun directly in the eyes of Alex who produced some fine saves once the manager’s cap was placed on his head. Unfortunately, Witton conceded in the very first minute as the defence slumbered. However, Witton were quickly on the attack and started to penetrate as Sam and Theo produced smart challenges and sprightly, speedy runs to outpace the Vale under-10-seconds-for-the-100m-defender who was buzzing around everywhere. Fin O and Sergeant Wilko – who was indestructible in defence - were combining well on the left, giving Harry the chance to range upfield Witton were knocking on the door, but only when passing effectively, it was another first half of missed chances and under-performance.

The second half was much the same as Luke cleverly snuffed out anything resembling an attack and Elliot commanded his box magnificently with some well-timed challenges. Tom A, although under pressure in the first half, grew into the game and was able to send some telling passes down the right flank. Witton hit the post twice, missed two open goals before Keegan was finally released and was able to equalize with 20 minutes remaining. Finn, hitherto confined, rumbled on to the pitch and began to combine with a hard-working Dan in midfield but it was a rare Vale attack that led to a catastrophic own goal with 5 minutes to go. Witton were roared on and pumped up though as Noah raided down the right side and crossed for Keegan to poke home an equaliser. In the last minute, a loud home crowd hit the roof as Ollie found space on the right, crossed excellently and Thomas was able to slam home a last second winner.
It was a deserved win, but Witton must, must play to their strengths and pass better for the forthcoming County FA Cup game against Stockport league maestros Bollington next week. “I’m done with nagging” announced the shrew-faced manager after the game as he slumped to the turf in relief.

Captain’s man of the match: Thomas
Managers man of the match: Elliot W
Magic moment: Three saves in a row from Alex in the first half
Quote of the day: “have they done shooting practice?”