PHEW!!!!

Today's match was against Premier League newcomers Ryhope CW. Our opposition had shipped 24 goals in their first three games, but had put in two better performances recently, picking up their first point last week. Noticeably, they had scored in every game, but on paper it looked like a game we should win with something to spare. How wrong I was!!!

Ethan returned from a bout of swine flu to give us our first full strength squad for a couple of weeks. Elliot (GK), Harry and Edward (Def), Jamie (LM), Sam A (CM), James (RM) and Ben up front.

Again, the weather was kind although the pitch was starting to become a little sticky underfoot.

Whilst we did create some chances in the first half, with efforts from Ben, Jamie and Sam A who hit the woodwork and James supporting well in midfield setting up many of the opportunities, it was Ryhope who opened the scoring after 10 mins. They piled players forward resulting in a 3 on 1 attack which resulted in a ball falling to their striker who couldn't miss an open goal from a couple of yards out. Raiders struggled to get to grips with the pace of the game as Ryhope looked hungrier to win the ball, although we did try to pass the ball at times. Hopefully, an equaliser would come in the second half.

HT 0-1.

The usual substitutions were made at half time, with Ben making way for Sam U, and Sam C replacing James on the right. Sam A took a short breather to allow Ethan into midfield for the second half.

Rather than an equaliser coming, it was Ryhope who scored again a few minutes into the second half with an excellent low right foot effort that give Elliot no chance. 0-2 and a disasterous result loomed.

The passing game appeared to go out of the window as Raiders launched the ball forward against a suspect Ryhope defence. 8 mins to go and at last a breakthrough, Sam C striking home from the right to give us some hope. The crowd sensed a comeback as Ryhope tired. 3 mins to go. Sam A (back on for Jamie) swung in a corner which Edward rose to head in for a terrific equaliser. 2-2 and pride salvaged a little. 1 minute left and a last chance as the ball was played into the box for Sam C to run onto. A defender made a last ditch tackle but caught Sam C from behind. PENALTY!!!!

With the usual penalty taker, James, on the sidelines, the spotlight fell to man of the moment Edward to step up to try and win it with what would be the last kick of the game. Edward's low drive squirmed under the keeper and nestled in the back of the net to give Raiders a very fortunate victory, and personally earned him parent's m.o.m for another excellent all round display. Oppo m.o.m went to Sam U this week.

Credit must go to Ryhope in the way they have responded following their early season drubbings. They were visibly distraught after the match but they deserved something from the game and were seconds from getting a point.

Remarkably, no change in league position for us this week as we remain 6th, however we are only a point behind the four teams above us in joint second.

KH