Change of plans - Kev had decided to take his good lady away for the day, and I had a full morning at work - so I had to opt for a game nearer to home than Teversal, and they don't come any nearer than Watnall Road.
I actually fell to sleep on the sofa when I finally got in from work - waking up at 2:48pm.! Quickly into the car and at the ground with two minutes to spare! Things have been a bit on the hectic side this last couple of weeks, and this, coupled with unwelcome news about my health, have taken it's toll !!
Normo sit proudly at the top of the CML South division, having yet to lose a game. AFC gave as good as they got in the first half, and arguably had the better of the chances.
The best chance of the half fell to the home team, but Dan Blair fired wide after Joe Gent had played him in on goal. Hucknall no. 10 Adam Corrigan had an effort well saved by James Baker in the away goal, but the big striker should really have done better.
AFC left-back Nick Labbatte was stretchered off after he was injured halting Adam Nicholls' run on goal. Nicholls then had a fierce drive well saved by Harvey in stoppage time. H-T 0-0
The league leaders did take the lead on 57 - Corey Bowler fired the ball across goal from the left and ASH ROGERS, who was running back to defend, hammered it past Harvey from 10 yards. Spectacular own goal, one that any striker would have been proud of.
The league leaders did take the lead on 57 - Corey Bowler fired the ball across goal from the left and ASH ROGERS, who was running back to defend, hammered it past Harvey from 10 yards. Spectacular own goal, one that any striker would have been proud of.
Athletic frontman Steve Connelly brought a cracking save from Harvey in the 76th minute, but as Josh Henry went to clear the loose ball, he clipped Bowler and Referee Rob Jackson had no hesitation in awarding a penalty. STEVE CONNELLY smashed the ball past Harvey to double the Shiners' lead.
On 85, AFC were awarded a corner, but when Joe Gent's kick was cleared, the ball fell nicely to Bowler and the no.9 calmly picked out STEVE CONNELLY who skipped past Harvey before driving home. With two minutes of added time already played, Athletic were awarded another penalty - giving Connelly a golden chance to complete his personal hat-trick. Not to be though - the ball was hit well enough, but it was high, wide and landed in someones garden on Salterford Road!!!! F-T 0-3
Admission £3
Programme £1
Attendance - not bad ... I head counted 50.
We spent a lot of time watching Blidworth, Pinxton and Heanor last season. A day to remember for all three as they recorded remarkable wins : Pinxton 4-1 away at Dunkirk, Heanor 9-0 at home to Thurnby Nirvana, and Blidworth beat Borrowash away, 3-1. Well done to all !!!
