Wrington Redhill 1 Winscombe 3
The final game of the season for Wrington Redhill against Winscombe did not produce the usual high tempo game these local rivals usually provide with a number of players missing from both squads. Wrington Redhill struggled to get any momentum going and looked as if the season was already over and on the end of season tour rather than a local derby. Passing was poor and lack of energy in closing their opponents down when out of possession.
Winscombe looked the most threatening side without any decisive attempts at goal whilst the home team’s best chance fell to Jack Hutchingswho wriggled free in front of goal but was unable to find the net. A goal came when the visitors beat the defensive offside trap and Dan Morrisraced through and shot past the advancing Matt Hill.
The second period continued in much the same lethargic way, still not finding the form the team are capable of. As the half proceeded Joe Creese and Reece Ferguson-Obamwonyi came off the bench and whilst the duo were not fully fit, both returning from injuries, they duly produced that extra spark with their undoubted pace and ability on the ball. Creese attacked down the left flank won a corner from which a Josh Pitt effort was deflected past Dan Bullock by a defender to equalise at 1-1.
However, Winscombe regained the lead when Hill’s mistimed clearance was intercepted by Daryl Newman who accepted the gift and put the ball into the net. It went from bad to worse when a penalty was awarded for a dubious hand ball and the spot kick was fired past Hill for a 3-1 lead. After this the only chance for Wrington Redhill came to Creese who’s vicious shot was heading for the far corner before somehow Bullock scrambled to get a hand to the ball and safety via the cross bar.
Whist this match was a poor end to the season and disappointing on the day there is no doubt that there have been great strides forward from this young squad over the whole season. This is the first full season for many of the players at senior football with the past two years so severely affected by the Covid pandemic. There have been some real quality gamesand at one point the team was hotly on the heels of the eventual teams that won the promotion spots. Only five points separated Wrington Redhillending in 6th position behind the front two promoted.
The management team of Leigh White, Mark Brown and Sam Clements are already planning ahead for the next campaign with their target of achieving promotion to the Premier division. There is a superb spirit within the squad and will no doubt enjoy their short break in Spain, have a short summer rest and get back into condition and training in preparation for the 2022-2023 season.
Team:
Goalkeeper: Matt Hill
Defence: Chris Bradley, Leigh White, Ethan Johnson, Rory Thomas
Midfield: Ollie Clements, Dan Ferguson, Cory Thomas-Barker
Strikers: Josh Pitt, Jack Hutchings, Matt Walsh
Subs: Joe Creese (for Matt Walsh), Reece Ferguson-Obamwonyi (for Chris Bradley), Charlie Cressey (for Ollie Clements)