South Rushden Pumas v Great Doddington Green – 21.11.09
 
The Pumas took to the field looking to build on an encouraging performance the previous week – unfortunately they were playing a team high on confidence and ability in Doddington Green… Final instructions from the coaches were heard and the whistle blew to start the match.
 
Both teams started brightly, the game was stopped from flowing by lots of throw-ins, with both teams jostling for position. Soon Doddington started to expose some gaps in the Pumas defence and piled the pressure on. The Pumas were unable to respond and Doddington scored two quick goals without reply.
 
They continued to attack, with Callum's defending holding back the flood gates temporarily. Brett made a series of saves, and ran out of his goal in a ‘Grobbelaar’ fashion entertaining the crowd!
 
Unfortunately Doddington had one shot too many and Brett was beaten again. The Pumas started to have a bit more fight about them, Dylan and Savvi both working hard to close down the opposition and win the ball. Josh struck a sweet shot that was goal bound until a Doddington player got their head in the way, and Lucas also managed a good shot on goal. As the half ended the game was more equal, and the Pumas were looking more confident.

The Pumas looked ready for a battle at the beginning of the second half, and Josh went on a strong run through the Doddington midfield. They responded with a well constructed attacking move ending with a desperate goalmouth scramble. Callum eventually got the ball into his hands, having taken over from Brett in goal at half time.
 
Doddington won a free kick and the Pumas created a very professional wall (Making sure all body parts were protected), and the ball sailed wide for a goal kick. The game was very even for the next few minutes, with most of the action in the midfield areas. Unfortunately Doddington's quality showed again as they scored two more past a despairing Callum.
 
Brett took to the field and the Pumas seemed transformed. He immediately had a good run down the wing and went close with a good shot. Riley and Josh also went close, just a touch away from a first goal of the game – Suddenly it was all Pumas!
 
As the final minutes ticked by the Pumas won a corner. As they pushed forward looking for a well deserved consolation they were exposed at the back and Doddington scored for a final time just before the final whistle.
 
The Pumas still seem upbeat despite recent results, and are still capable of playing some very good football – unfortunately they came up against a very strong team, and need to start playing from the first whistle instead of well into the second half. As always the effort from the team was not in question – Good times are hopefully around the corner!!