Game 16

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15/02/25 – League

AFC 3 – 1 AFC Warriors

Attenborough returned to league action at The Strand up against one of the three main title challengers and came out on top in a fiercely competitive clash. Once more the home side had a whole host of injury issues but were blessed with the return of George Pursglove up front, while Alex Lawrence filled in for Fin Haywood in goal.

On a muddy pitch it was clear right from the off that this was going to be a severe test of character for both sides and Attenborough started strongly with some excellent link up play down the right-hand side, Simon Savage and Lakshay Sharma both using their pace to good effect.

The opening goal set the tone for the rest of the match, Lewis Caine thundering in a near-post header from a corner after 17 minutes to give the home side the lead. The Blues kept up the pressure and could have doubled their advantage shortly after, some good work between Luke Smith and Pursglove laying a golden chance on a plate for Sharma, but the Warrior’s keeper was quickly out to smother.

Attenborough were made to pay for that missed opportunity a few minutes later, a deflected shot escaping the grasp of Lawrence and Ryley Picker showed determination to squeeze in the loose ball.

Graham Mee’s men were unfazed by that setback, however, and another corner proved their way back to the front, Pursglove delivering another dangerous ball for Will Humphriss to bundle in and give the Blues the half-time advantage.

It had been one of the most complete halves of football that Attenborough had put together this season with everyone at the top of their game, Riley Billson particularly instrumental in moving the ball quickly and efficiently on a difficult pitch, while the defence restricted a good side to limited chances.

There was no let up by the home team in the second half, either, with an excellent determination shown by all to prevent Warriors gaining any momentum. The centre half pairing of Will Humphriss and Reece Caine dealt with almost everything thrown their way, displaying an incredible hunger to protect their make-shift goalkeeper, while Lewis Sanderson really got stuck in despite featuring out of position at left back. Warriors only had one clear sight of goal in the second 45, but Simon Savage produced a blistering turn of foot and expertly timed tackle to somehow prevent their forward getting a shot away. A truly outstanding piece of defending.

Despite having to work hard in defence, Attenborough did carry a threat going forward throughout the game and Luke Smith and Ollie Mee produced tireless displays up the wings, while Pursglove showed some real quality on the ball.

Indeed, it was Pursglove who delivered the pinpoint cross that wrapped things up with seven minutes remaining. Lewis Caine powering in another header that typified his all-action performance in mid-field. It was also a third assist of the game, and an incredible twenty fourth of the season, for Pursglove.

Next up we make the long trip to Newark and Sherwood which looks sure to be another blockbuster clash.

lawrence; savage, humphriss (28’), r caine, riley; sharma, billson, l caine © (17’,83’), luke smith; o mee, pursglove

subs; greatorex, sanderson


                                      Will Humphriss, Lewis Caine and George Pursglove 

 

 

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