Under 11's. Stockport Metro League. 3rd Division.
Home v Richmond Rovers

  Result - Reddish North End 0 Richmond Rovers 0

Match Report: Andy Johnson

Today RNE were looking to continue their 100% start to the season, But to continue this excellent start they were facing Richmond Rovers A, who also had had a fantastic start to the season with two wins from two games.

Straight from the kick-off you could tell that this game was going to be evenly matched. Richmond showed why they had won their other games, with a bit of early pressure. Khaleal then hit the crossbar for RNE as they bounced back from their shaky start. As Richmond continued to pressurize, Joe H produced a couple of great saves and handled the ball really well under pressure from the Richmond’s attack. The match continued to stay even as both teams struggled to find that killer pass.

Towards the end of the first half Richmond started to pile on more pressure on RNEs goal. Richmond found a way through our defence but put the ball over the goal as Joe H closed them down well. Joe H then kept the score level going into half time as he made a great save from a Richmond free kick.

HALF TIME

The second half kicked off with Richmond continuing the pressure they showed at the end of the first half. Richmond eventually made a break for goal resulting in a great tackle from Emi. Richmond were starting to take control of the game, creating a few chances, but RNEs defence stayed very strong. Zac, Emi, Chris O and Chris B all made brilliant clearances and timely interceptions to keep the score level.

Once again RNE bounced back as Khaleal, with a couple of tricks, won a free kick at the edge of Richmond’s area. Kane curled the ball into the area which, in the end, was cleared by a defensive header. With this RNE sensed the game was turning in their favour. Dillon P, who had not been on long, provided a fantastic ball through to Khaleal who was only stopped by a last ditch tackle.

Everyone on the sideline was getting nervous by this stage of the game with only a few minutes to go. Richmond broke again, this time getting past the defence. They had three players lining up to shoot yet still couldn’t find the back of the net. As the full time whistle neared, Dillon P looked to be through on goal but was denied by another excellent tackle by Richmond’s defence.

As the final whistle blew it was clear to see that these two teams will be fighting at the top end of the table come the end of the season after this enthralling match. Whereas last week was all about our attack, this week was most definitely all about our defence. Zac, Emi, Chris O and Chris B all deserve a mention for this very strong showing from our defence. They will all have to be just as strong next week as we head off to Marple to face top of the table Rose Hill Rovers. Looking forward to seeing you all there.

Man of the match : Chris Brown