Premier Division
Coleford Athletic 1 Wookey 1
Saturday, 07 January 2006
League leaders Wookey left Coleford with a hard fought point despite being under increasing pressure as the game progressed. The home team were quicker out of the blocks and were unlucky with a strong penalty appeal as captain John Billing was upended in the box but it was the visitors who brought the first save of the game from keeper Laurie Bigden. Charlie Walton drove wide when well placed as a fierce midfield battle ensued.
Midway through the half a Dan Reynolds corner was spectacularly volleyed home by Billing to give Coleford the lead. Despite having the best of the chances an excellent Bigden save made sure the home team finished the half in front.
Wookey spurned the second halve's first chance before Lance Cray's pinpoint cross was headed narrowly over by Walton. Tony Burton skied when well placed from another Cray assist and Darren Willis hit the bar with a misplaced cross. The visitors made Coleford pay for their inability to take their chances hitting a good chance across goal before Ben Greenhaigh headed the equaliser after both keeper and defenders left a dangerous cross to each other.
The Miners dominated the closing stages, Cray forcing an excellent save from the Wookey keeper. Coleford's frustration grew as the opposing Linesman's flag carrying arm seemed to constantly point skywards for no apparant reason. Referee Arthur Jones correctly turned down another penalty claim and further good chances were wasted by Cray and Burton, the final score 1-1.
Man of the match was Marc Chalk.
Junior Cup action this Saturday away to Odd Down Juniors, all players meet at the Eagle at 12:15 for a 1:45 kick off.
COLIN SHOTTER
|
|