Match Report

Supporter: Barry Grainger.

For the second week in succession the Guild found itself conceding 5 goals despite again going into half-time with a lead courtesy of a fine goal by Jez Mooney who finished off a super passing move. In truth, our opposition should have had at least one goal but could not finish off three one-on-one attempts.

Sadly the second half fatigue that gripped the team last week again made a fine appearance and the usual FOBG passing, tackling and determination was just not there; however it was a tackle that brought Wickham level when they tucked away a penalty after James Clarke was adjudged to have clipped the ankles of the attacker in trying to make a last ditch tackle.

Wickham is a game that has only just been put back on the fixture list although I understand we have always fared well against them but they are a much more youthful side than we have played against before and their legs began to stretch us and after a few more misses finally took the lead when their striker, who may well be older than he looked, ran clear to slot past me. I may well be being unfair but I have suits older than him and if not, then whatever face cream he uses I'd like a few tubs for our boys.

Despite legs being jaded I cannot fault the effort to draw level. Jez Mooney made it a one man mission to chase down every ball and after a delightful cross-field pass from Simon Davies which Jez took in his stride past the left back he squared for Alan to score at the second attempt for 3 goals in 3 games.

Perhaps that was our last piece of energy as Wickham mounted attack after attack and two quick goals, another one-on-one and a scramble from a corner put them 4-2 up. They also hit the bar twice and the post so fully deserved their fifth when they again broke for the winger to bend into the corner.

Both managers agreed the scoreline was harsh on us and our opposition were dignified to say that the only difference between the sides was that they took their chances and we didn't. I am not sure that is 100% accurate but perhaps if Lady Luck had smiled on us in the first half things could have been different.

Worse was to follow when they confirmed there was to be no food as their lady was on holiday. Neil, you took the right week to have off and hope the buffet at Dean's family christening is taking a hiding. Congratulations to Dean and family but such a poor choice of godfather. Be good to have you both back for next week's home match.

To end on a positive note, Jez Mooney was superb today chasing anything that moved, Frank Pearce set a tackling masterclass, Alan notched his third goal in succession, the Mrs has not found out that I smuggled my gear out of the house and played and whilst everyone was upset in the changing rooms, heads didn't drop and no-one was singled out as everyone knew we had all tried our best. The heads were willing but sadly the lungs and legs had other ideas.

Man of the match: a landslide for Jez Mooney that Teresa May could only dream of.

First home game next week lads. Don't cry in your beer too long. Always another game!