Match Report

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Stratton Crosslink 
2 - 3
 Trowbridge Town

League (Wiltshire Football League Premier Division)
Saturday, February 23rd, 2002
2:30 PM Kick-off

Scorers: Paul Shanley (2)


Trowbridge hardly ventured from their own half of the pitch during the first twenty minutes of this league match although during that time time there were no clear chances created. The main event of the first half until the 23rd minute was the heavy downfall of hailstones until Jerad O'Pray forced a corner when he may have done better after beating two players but his shot was deflected for a corner by the Stratton goal-keeper. Shortly after, Mitchell set up O'Pray again but his shot went over the bar as the goal-keeper advanced. With four minutes of the first half remaining, Stratton took the lead with a fine left foot shot from outside the area by Jerry Wright.

When the second half began, Stratton really took control and added two more goals in the first 5 minutes. The first flew in from the right hand side of the penalty box from Martin Groundsell, then Steve Shaw took advantage when Chris Vaughan misjudged a high ball into the area to make it 3-0 from close range. In the 57th minute, Trowbridge had Brent Murden sent off, being the last line of defence when giving away a penalty and the match should have been all over. However, Groundsell's penalty went wide of the left post and there was still some hope. Stratton continued to press and struck the crossbar before Trowbridge finally came to life. Dave Mitchell was brought down and Paul Shanley stepped up to convert the penalty. Mike Little then came on as a substitute and he too was fouled in the area. Paul Shanley stepped up again and it was now 3-2 with all to play for. Now playing with more belief, Trowbridge pushed forward looking to grab a point and had to be careful as they left gaps at the back, time however, was against them and Stratton held on for the points that they deserved.

Report by Robin Sims.


SQUAD

Starting lineup

Chris Vaughan
Gordon Saunderson
Mark Connor
Andy Doel
Ben Gardner
Brent Murden
Adam Nunn
Jerad O Pray
Paul Shanley
Tim Waylen
Dave Mitchell

Subs used

Robert Coombs
Mike Little