The second match of the day saw the Rovers Blues take on last seasons league and cup winners, Gotherington White Sox. Joe A wore the captain’s armband and Henry played alongside him in defence, with Finn returning to the goalkeeper position.
Gotherington kicked off and quickly made their intentions known, attacking with fluid passing movements and great running off the ball. Within the first 2 minutes Gotherington opened their scoring account. A cross from the right saw a mis-timed clearance land at the grateful feet of the White Sox striker who passed the ball into the net.
Gotherington launched numerous attacks and looked like they could score at will. A second goal arrived following confusion in the Rovers area. The ball landed at the feet of the Gotherington striker who was able to side foot the ball into Finn’s net.
Almost from the kick off Gotherington increased their lead. A flowing move led to another tap in for the White Sox striker.
Rovers were unable to escape from their own half of the pitch and gallant defence from Charlotte and Joe A, as well as Tim and Will in midfield, and a series of great saves by Finn prevented the score from increasing before half time.
The second half saw Rovers employing three defenders – Henry, Charlotte and Joe A, in a bid to stem the White Sox attacks. The tactic almost worked as Rovers were able to break out of their own half and Dewi forced a goal kick.
The goals didn’t stop though and Gotherington scored a headed goal following a cross from the left to make it 4 – 0.
(Ben battles with the tough little Gotherington No.10.)
Rovers re-grouped, worked extremely hard as a unit and defended well, but were unable to prevent Gotherington from adding another two goals to make the final score 6 – 0 to Gotherington.
The White Sox were too strong for Rovers and if they continue playing the classy football that they created in this match they will again go on to win the league and cup double.
