Both teams appeared to take time to settle into the game. Helsby had a good percentage of possession in the first ten minutes but appeared unorganised, we asked the boys to use the wings, Dan Boyle and Tom M waited patiently using the full width of the pitch but for some reason we tried to do it the hard way, driving the ball through the centre, creating very little in the way of out right chances. Not passing when we should. Then similar to what we have experienced before, Winsford JB broke and their player scored a very good goal.0-1.
It was crucial that we didn’t concede another and Ellis W was slotted into right back to strengthen the defence. Shortly afterwards, Dan Boyle had an opportunity on the edge of the box and drove the ball low into the right corner… game on! 1-1.
We didn’t have to wait much longer before Ellis W took a throw in, which reached Tom, who was able to turn, take on a player and hit the ball with his left foot into the net to make it 2-1, before we hit half time.
From the kick off in the second half, it was obvious that it would be difficult to maintain the advantage, playing against a strong wind and Winsford JB were determined to get something out of the game, pressing hard, defenders Ryan W, Grantly, Sam L, Dan Booth and Ellis really had to dig in, and did the job tremendously. We didn’t concede another goal which speaks volumes for their efforts. On several occasions’ Winsford did have a run on goal from a loose ball, but Aaron identified the attack and came off his line very quickly to stop the danger.
Jack Hannigan was asked to play on the left side of centre mid to support Dan B and attack when possible. He had a great second half causing trouble for the opposition on the wing, cutting in with the ball that naturally fell to his right foot and scored two great goals.
Tom continued to cause problems, putting balls into the danger area behind the defence, but we were caught off side on several occasions.
Ryan Bond read the game very well, carrying out the holding role when required and also creating his own chances scoring a great individual goal.

Winsford deserved something out of the second half, but it didn’t happen, well done to them for making it so competitive.

This was a real team effort you should be proud of your performance. First game of Division 2 and three points, we can’t ask for any more.

MOM Tom M