Having been beaten at the start of the League season by Marsh, Kodak were in determined mind not to lose this time. They played much better but not well enough to stop a Marsh WIN. Kodak, perhaps against the run of play, scored first just after the half hour. A mix up in the Marsh defence allowed a flick / knock in shot to beat the Marsh keeper. Stand in keeper (3rd keeper this season) Spencer Brown had played well without having to do too much, but could do nothing about the goal. He continued to play well, especially with his kicking. Paul Nolan must surely score a hatfull of goals soon !!!!!!! He ran and ran the Kodak defenders into the ground, but was unfortunate a large number of times with his finishing, Including a superb run through, beating the keeper, and ........hitting the post of the unguarded goal. Alex Henderson again shone on the wing. A position he has almost made entirely his own through his terrific ball control and sprints down the wing. Jack Bigwood was yet again often in exactly the right place at the right time to set Marsh on their way. The ball is almost like a magnet in being attracted to him, then being dispersed to the correct position. The "quality" defence once again played its part, with Phil Tubb relishing not being in goal, and playing a very solid game. The full backs, Miles Wiggins & Steven Cloherty, were also outstanding and both found time to venture upfield as extra wingers. Even with the many corners in their favour Marsh could not get the ball into the Kodak net, and the half finished 1 - 0 to the hard working Kodak side.
After, apparently, the correct talk, Marsh dominated the second half. After 15 minutes the ball seemed to be on a string in the Kodak area. They could not properly clear it, and Marsh could not force it home. Eventually RHYS PRICE found the beating of everybody and, with a little help from the Kodak Keeper, slotted the ball home. Rhys had been playing well, but maybe at this stage of the building of the side he was trying just a few too many tricks. Marsh were now level, and in dominant command of this match. Kodak in frustation perhaps should have been reduced to 10 men for a challenge from behind, but the Referee was in leinient mood. Marsh were becoming more and more dominant, and it was little surprise when captain TOMMY EDWARDS slotted home the winner Although Kodak continued to try to attack, including their Keeper at the few corners they earned, they found the Marsh Defence & Midfield in "ungiving" mood. Marsh Rangers F.C. confidently held on for this useful victory.
Marsh Rangers F.C. now play, at home, in the next round to Hounslow Wanderers F.C., our partners at Rosedale.
Marsh Manager DAVE CAMPBELL, and Chief Coach TONY HEATH were full of praise for the way the lads had performed. This is not quite the finished article but shows they are leading the lads in the correct direction. WELL DONE LADS
Reported by ACE REPORTER .......... CLIVE GOODMAN .