Men's 2nd Team Vs Bournville 4ths

CoB Men’s 2nds     1    v   0   Bournville 4ths

Goalscorer: Robin Stanley

Still not completely back to full strength, CoB went into their last home game of the season facing a team just below them in the league, on a roll of five consecutive wins, and who could overtake them with another win. This was also CoB’s last chance for league points.

On a fine sunny spring afternoon both teams knew what was at stake and set about their task eagerly. CoB soon settled into their stride and began pressing forward, creating chances, but unfortunately could not make any of them count. Bournville too were trying hard to create their own chances, but their efforts were confidently dealt with by the defence, with Edan, Ibrar and Munib and Jahed holding firm and with Jack, in goal, calmly clearing anything coming his way.

Both teams continued to probe for openings. Eventually, CoB forced a short corner. Parameth pushed the ball out to Stan who rifled in a shot to claim a slender lead at the break.

Bournville tried to step up a gear at the start of the second half, keen to get back on level terms. They went close with a short corner effort that hit a post and was cleared away. CoB continued to press forward at every opportunity with good prompting from Abbasi. Munib and Jordan particularly with good support from Lindiani, Sean and Kamran, Anthony and Stan. Ismael too was showing  much good promise as the game wore on. Everyone was playing their part when needed and the rolling subs gave players a regular breather.

A couple or injuries caused some temporary setbacks, firstly Jahed limped off but soon returned to the fray, then Lindiani was struck a painful blow on the foot – the wonder of the ice-packs soon helped out!!!

Skipper on the pitch, Stan. Showed commendable leadership by dropping back to help out with the defensive effort.

CoB’s defence remained solid and Jack was superb in goal, not allowing the visitors to get back into the game. CoB thought that they had scored a second when Abbasi following up Stan’s short corner effort. However, he sportingly admitted a foot offence and the goal was disallowed.

Bournville knew they had to win the game to jump into second place, but for all their efforts they could not find a way through.

In the end this was a narrow but hard-fought win that keeps CoB in second place for now. Next week’s game at Finchfield Development Team will not count for points. Unfortunately, Lichfield are lurking, handily place to grab that second place right at the final count.

This team continues to show great promise in their first full season together. They should feel proud of themselves, whatever happens next week.