Newgen FC vs Kings Church Orpington

League Game

Saturday February 28th 2009

 
Background information : This match was an away league game, earlier in the season we beat orpington 2-1 in the cup, but unfortunately lost to them 3-2 in the league

Score : Newgen FC 0 - 2 Kings Church Orpington
Newgen Scorers : N/A

Starting lineup :
Cris B
Lee Phil Rob Chaz
Joe Paul Wilf Dan W
Alex Matt C

Lineup analysis : We always field a strong lineup each week, however things were made a little more tricky for this game as our goalie Doug didnt show up, Darren our key midfield man was unavailable, and Matt had a slight ankle. We couldnt even call upon Mike, Danny "the boy", Dan D, Polish Peter and Adam T.

The Match : Newgen were very rushed in preparing for this game, as after waiting for nearly 45mins our regular goalie didnt show up. So we arrived late for the game without a goalie, great start. Newgen again started slowly and sloppily, possibly becuase we didnt have a decent warm up, and also because orpington were a little more lively than us.They also beat us in the tackle aswell, as Newgen just couldnt get going in the 1st 20mins or so. Even though we started poorly we somehow managed to prevent Cris in goal from having much to do, which was encouraging. When we started to get going, newgen looked dangerous, escpecially with big alex using the ball well up front, and also Dan and Chaz looking really dangerous down the left. We created a few half chances, but none i can really say should of been goals, as the orpington defence defended well. Orpington caught us on the counter and unchallenged their player unleashed a shot from 25 yards out, it sailed straight into the goal just under the cross bar. Newgen probably should've closed him down quicker, but as they were on the break our defence also had to worry about the movement of the oppo strikers.The game continued as a fairly even affair, that was until the orpington left winger appeared to slice his cross, which freakishly looped high and over into the top corner. The freak goal was a devasting blow, as we were obviously trying to come back.2-0 orpington at half time.Considerably annoyed by being 2-0 down and because of other factors, Newgen were really fired up for the 2nd half. It really showed in our play as we were alot more firm in the challenge and our passing was alot more sharper and varied. Throughout the half we seemed entrenched in the opposition half, and rarely gave them a sniff at our goal, in fact Cris only had 1 clear save to make, and we hardly had any corners to deal with aswell. The cavalier and impressive Rob often strode forward excellently and left 3 or even 2 at the back, but it didnt seem to affect us at all, as we piled on the pressure, but without getting that all important goal. Dan who got a dead leg moved to left back which allowed charlie to be more dangerous in attack, also Joe and Lee got more and more into the game, and became quite dangerous down the right. We had a few half chances again, with only one header being a really clear one, but unfortunately it hit the bar and dropped kindly into the goalies arms. Alex who was lively all game also used his strength to beat a few defenders,a whip in some crosses and passes, but on most occasions we couldnt get on the end of them or theywere dealt with impressively by orpingtons tough defence. Final score 2-0 Orpington.

Man of the match : Dan "H2o Man" Waterton - Has Dan finally hit the kinda form that he produced in his early Newgen career? Only time will tell, but he his heading in the right direction at the moment, as throughout the game he had plenty of the ball, and used it to great effect down the left flank. He skinned many a player en route to delivering a pass or cross. On the whole he was also good when defending, and worked well with Chaz down the left.Well played mate.

Player to mention : Rob "Bono" Batley - The man mountain at the back, was impressive in defence, even though Rob was struggling with a leg injury, he didnt let this affect his game.Nice one boss.

Players Spotlight : Paul Marriott and Adam "the wolf" Wilthew - Veteran player and Newgen legend Paul M rolled back the years with an outstanding performance in central midfield, his determination and passion for ths game was inspiring, as he never stopped working. Paul was excellent as the defensive midfielder. Adam "busted a gut" to get his team going with great wrokrate, passion and communication throughout the match, he practically won every header in the air, and unleashed some killer passes. They both formed an excellent partnership in central midfield.

Special Mention : Cris "Ballsy" Balsdon - I had hoped to give Cris a 90 minute run out at right back, becuase i think he has earnt that. But thanks to Doug not showing up, poor old Cris had to go in goal. He did however do a great good, and was only beaten by a completely freakish goal and a powerful wonder strike. He communicated well and his kicking was impressive, an all round solid display from our stand in goalie. cheers buddy.

Fans of the match : Brian "Brain" Marriot - Was actually our only sub, so he was more than just a fan. Brian also supported the team and kindly ran the line for us exceptionally.

Afterthought : I really wish i could write "a great team win" again, but i cant. We lost 2-0, however, i really enjoyed the game, and am really proud of us all in the 2nd half. We showed great team spirit and passion in trying to get something out of the game.

Phil Stradling