Not been to Plains Road for a while - strange for us because we usually enjoy our visits there. Always a warm welcome from everyone involved with the club, and for their friendliness and hospitality, the Committee are second to none. No exception tonight - the last team sheets saved for us and a coffee, sandwich and cake at half time.
The development at the Plains Road complex is going on apace, and with plans for even more investment, the future is certainly looking good for the Miners.
Both teams were guilty of early misses, Thurnby's Matt Melbourne failing to trouble Gedling keeper Carl Najuk from two yards out in the fifth minute, then seconds later Anthony Bedward failed to cause Najuk's opposite number James Flinders any concern with a tame header.
The home team took the lead on 11, helped in no small part by some spectacularly poor defending. Bradley Wells played in brother Kieran, who in turn fired across goal to Bedward. The striker was given time and space to fire the ball back across the goal to where Thurnby's left back SEAN DOY was waiting to hammer the ball into his own net.
Thurnby looked lively, and kept the home defence on their toes - but despite looking solid at the back, after 35 minutes had been played, the scores were level.
After a needless foul on the edge of the box, KIRK MASTER took control of the free-kick and fired in a cracker - the ball sailing to Najuk's left and into the goal. Excellent strike! H-T 1-1
So into the clubhouse for cuppa and cake, and the first chance we've had to have a decent chat with our friend "Deadly Derek". Very quiet man, but very knowledgeable about the local game.
The second half didn't provide much to write about. It was fast and furious at times, but despite a few "handbags" the players were a credit to their league.
Welfare secured the win with a goal ten minutes into the second period - Brad Wells ran in on goal, skipped a challenge before picking out KIERAN WELLS who had the simple task of tapping home from close range.
Overall, a good evening - the rain held off thankfully, and the game wasn't half bad!!
Admission £4
Programme £1
Attendance 72
