South Rushden Rebels v Wilbarston Wanders. 11-10-2009.

 The Rebels suffered their 1^st home defeat after Wilbarston showed us how to finish from the edge of the box. The boys were playing catch up all through the game after a sluggish start handed our opponents the early initiative.

 Today's squad was: Ali, Bolts, Matt, Aidan, Will, Ed, Harry, Scott, Reece and Lakey. Subs: James and Lewis.

 Wilbarston started strongly and were soon putting our defence under pressure. Their 1^st goal came when we failed to deal with a soft corner that should have been cleared.  The ball ended up in the back of our net as our defence stood still and one of their attackers ran onto the ball and shot into the net.

We then came under increasing pressure and would have conceded further goals if Ali had not produced 2 fantastic saves.

Towards half time we had our best spell of the game. Harry and Ed began to win the ball in midfield and Reece put both Lakey and Will through on goal with good passes, but we could not find a finish. A dangerous free kick from Sam into their 6 yard box was scrambled away. Just before half time Ed released Reece but a combination of good defending and goalkeeping again kept the Rebels out.

Half Time 0-1.

The boys continued to push forward after half time but without creating a clear opportunity. Their defence remained strong and gave they keeper some excellent protection. The wind also became much stronger and we were now having trouble clearing our lines. On 43 minutes Wilbarston doubled they lead with a goal against the run of play. This was made worse on 48 minutes as a 3^rd goal was smashed past Ali to put the game beyond our reach. Despite continued effort our defence had dropped very deep. Wilbarston rubbed salt into the wound just before the end. 2 more goals were scored from the edge of the box. Again our boys did well to win the 1^st header/tackle but did not close down the 2^nd ball. 2 Good finishes ensured not even Ali could prevent them ending in the back of our net.

Full Time 0-5.

 The boys did not deserve to lose 0-5 but must learn from how Wilbarston worked together as a team, finished strongly from the edge of the box, were quick to be 1^st to the ball and always looking for the quick pass or throw in.

We will return next week determined to achieve a different result.