Birstall got the breakthrough on the half hour mark but Welford managed to keep them shut out for the rest of the half; going in only 0-1 down at the break. Despite trailing, Welford played a very impressive first half and again began to look like a team that wanted to go places.
The second half was end to end stuff, with both keepers having an outstanding game. On the 64th minute new boy Ed supplied our very own “Rooney”, Ryan, who curled a fantastic shot around the keeper to level up. As Welford started to tire there were some tense moments for the team and the manager, who visibly aged (another) ten years in just ten minutes, but the pressure told in the 74th minute when a mistake let Birstall in for what proved to be the winning goal.
Although 1-2 suggests a tight, cagey affair the truth is that it could have been very different had it not been for two superb performances by the goalkeepers. Welford welcomed Mason back between the sticks, reclaiming his place after having lost it the match before. His man-of-the-match performance kept the side in the game in times and staked a strong claim for the jersey next time out, although both keepers are responding to competition for the number 1 shirt positively. Manager Simon Stevens was also very satisified to see two new players having a great game and to welcome back Cameron for the first time since taking over.
A much improved performance all round, with some great football played – something the groundsman would no doubt say was down to the freshly mown and rolled pitch.
WVFC Saturday Adults
1 – 2
Birstall Old Boys
| 12th March 2022 | Newlands Road, Welford | Chairman’s Cup |
