Reaction Needed

Hello to you all and another blog starts.

This one reporting on a loss in the league. An unusual occurrence this season but here goes!

We went over to Godalming on Saturday full of confidence in keeping our great run going. Most of the boys went down early and our very generous Chairman paid for a brunch for us to prepare in the right way.

The atmosphere was tremendous in the changing room, music playing, banter being thrown around, an ideal environment to get a positive result.

We started OK, not great, a little slow in tempo for my liking but OK then a loose ball was contested between their midfielder and Scott Bridges. Their man was closer to the ball than Scott, so Scott had to reach for the ball to enable him to get there. Unfortunately Scott jumped into the challenge with both feet off the ground. It's a very bad habit he has and in the modern game is a no no!

Their players and staff went mad making the situation a formality that Scott would get a straight red!!

Don't get me wrong I am not defending Scott in anyway but I do know how much he is trying to curtail this side of his game. We have made him our captain and generally he has been fantastic in the role. Scott has so many strengths and is one of our best players. We want him to compete but compete fairly!

So down to ten players after just 12 mins played. We changed our shape slightly with Ingers doing both the forward and midfield role, his incredible energy meant defensively he was awesome. We arguably were still the dominant team with Godalming sitting back and we pushed forward. Our play in the final third was poor, final balls into the box or shots on target weren't good enough. A draw for both teams was fair but one final last twist brought about a penalty for them which was duly dispatched and our unbeaten run ended!

I have said to the lads for sometime now that positive results are always going to be based on our actions, especially in the league. We have got to rise above any provocation in any form. If we keep 11 players on the pitch and just concentrate on winning games we will be OK.

Although we have lost our top spot and are down to second we all have to play one another. We need to dust ourselves off and go again.

The feeling around the players is still extremely good and positive. One result doesn't effect us and for us to bounce back is vital.

A small break from the league this Saturday with a FA Trophy tie against Wingate& Finchley. Wingate came to us in a pre-season and looked impressive. They have carried that form into their own league and a very tough game is in store for us.

For me a reaction is all important. Regardless of result a strong performance is wanted. Our usual high tempo play back and that little bit more quality can bring us a positive result!

Cheers
SC