Men's 1st Team Vs Bournville 3

YARDLEY   4        BOURNVILLE  3RDS      1

Goalscorers :  Zach Jarvis, Jeevan Chagger 2, Alex Makepeace

Yardley’s first half performance in the late winter sunshine was arguably their best of the whole season so far.

Yardley attacked from the off showing their intent, but to be fair, their visitors also kept well in the game during these early exchanges, forcing Neal Makepeace into a timely save.

After a period involving some bright attacking play Yardley swept into the lead when Jeevan Chagger moved in on goal, his shot came back off the post only to be pounced on by skipper Zach Jarvis to edge the home side into the lead. Yardley maintained this early pressure and soon doubled their lead when Jeevan Chagger put his shot away after some good approach play from Islam. Yardley were looking good every time they moved forward and a third goal followed to give them the reward they deserved for this positive approach. Again, it was the lively Jeevan Chagger, who was nicely set up by Noah and he made no mistake with an excellent effort.  Bournville tried to create their own chances but could not find any clear way through the home side’s solid defence. Yardley’s keeper, Neal Makepeace was having a fairly quiet afternoon so far and only having the occasional half chance to clear.

At half time Yardley’s positive approach had led to a deserved lead at the break. At the start of the second half the visitors made a determined effort to get back into the game. At this stage Yardley seemed satisfied to soak up the pressure thrown at them but were also guilty of some careless possession. Bournville were not able to pose any major threat. Yardley then stepped up a gear and an attack down the left wing led to a cross coming into the D. This was met by the advancing Alex Makepeace who smashed the ball into the net giving the visiting keeper no chance. The goal of the game so far.  Yardley continued to press but were unable to gain any further advantage. Bournville were not giving up and eventually gained a consolation. A quickly taken free hit from just outside the D, led to a well taken goal giving Neal no chance.

Yardley were happy to have gained a comfortable victory, mainly due to their brilliant first half efforts. Taking their foot off the accelerator during the second half is something to look at for the future tough games to come. This starts this week away to West Bromwich 2nds.