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On yer bike Ako
An injury to last season’s
player of the year Adey Wilson and the sudden illness of
Marcus Hall’s son meant changes to the Notts line up.
However with the welcome return
of Daz Spencer and Richard Powdrill, Notts now have a squad
big enough and good enough to be flexible for the tough
season ahead. Trent Uni were last seasons champions and
play excellent football on their small pitch.
Again Notts began well, closing
down the Uni players as planned, not allowing them to room
for their passing game. A decisive interception freed Paul
Atkinson past the last defender. He drew the keeper and
slipped the ball inside for Willo to tap home into the unguarded
Net. Joy was short lived as the goal was ruled off side.
Notts were given a reminder
of the potential of this University side when a fine shot
struck the base of the Notts post with the defence beaten.
It was Notts who deservedly struck first with a stunning
goal. In a crowded box and with
his back to goal, Ako produced a superb overhead bicycle
kick which was in the back of the net before anyone could
react to the danger.
When it seemed Notts would
take a deserved half time lead a dangerous long throw to
the near post as neatly headed in by the Uni forward.
The University half time team
talk inspired by Mike Bassett (England Manager) seemed to
shake Trent into life (*Note must swear more at half time.
Colin.)
The Uni lads pressed Notts
hard however Notts were gifted a golden chance when Martin
Swannell’s cheeky back heel found Willo unmarked in
the six-yard box. The substitute Uni goalkeeper spread himself
well to block Dean’s shot.
Notts now were well and truly
on the back foot as this talented University side turned
on the football. A glaring miss by the unmarked Uni forward
let Notts off the hook.
To Notts credit that grit and
determination not to be beaten which served us so well last
season came through again. The introduction of 'eager for
a game' Darren and 'I must get myself to training' Stubbo
helped shore up the team for the last 20 mins and Notts
earn a well deserved point.
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