Tuesday 12th July - PSF
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| I don't believe the numbers were on the right players!! |
First visit of the season to the Eagle Valley – although our last visit was only towards the end of May, so we’ve not been away too long!
We were in the company of esteeemed blogger Nick “Sticky Palms” Palmer for this game – his Groundhopper blog for season 2011-12 will be up and running very shortly.. look forward to reading Nick’s blog – makes me look like a rank amateur!!
NCEL Premier Arnold were hosts to Blue Square North Boston United, and Jason Lee brought a very strong side to the Valley.
The likes of Julian Joachim, Lee Canoville, Danny Sleath, Gareth Jellyman – and our good friend Jaylee Hodgson……had more clubs than Tiger Woods had Jaylee! Last season he was at Loughborough Dynamo, Shepshed, Heanor Town, Gedling Southbank and Clumber, not to mention his call up to the Montserrat National team. Had a chance to grab a few words with him as he was warming up – and he related as to how, when the team turned up in Miami, they were treated like superstars!!! He’s off with the National team again soon – says he can’t wait – I’ll bet !!!
Arnold went ahead on 16 when Reece Bartram ran through the Boston defence before presenting DANNY GORDON the simplest of stooping headers a yard from goal. The scores were level after 32 minutes – Liam Ogden did well down the right before crossing to the far stick where CHRIS HALL was on hand to volley home.
The Pilgrims took the lead in the 38th minute, this time Hall the provider as his quick soft shoe shuffle bamboozled his marker, allowing him time to slide the ball to LEE CANOVILLE who smashed the ball across Walker and into the far corner.
Arnold came roaring back at their illustrious visitors, and were deservedly level two minutes before the break, ANTHONY GREGORY again on the mark, firing home from an acute angle. H-T 2-2
Took some time to do a bit of tweeting before the teams came out for the second half – amazing how many tweeters follow the non-league game. Scores were coming in from all over the place….
The second half saw the usual PSF multiple changes and this detracted from the game for a while, as the teams got used to their new formations and new team mates.
Mitch Slawson had a great effort well saved by replacement keeper Drury, and as Arnold kept up the pressure, GREGORY hammered home a superb right wing cross from Luke Dawkins on 53.
The lead lasted until the 75th minute, but then Harry Deane fired in an inch perfect cross that striker Micky Stones had no problem heading powerfully home. Finished 3-3 and was a fine helping of pre-season fodder! If Town can keep this bunch of players together, they should have a much better season than their previous one where they only avoided relegation on the final day of the season.
Admission £4 (inc team sheet – although not a very accurate one!!)
