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League Cup
Wednesday, 31 October 2007
Neil Hixon reshuffled the pack again for the league cup tie vistit of league leaders Birtley, Jon Innis making his debut as goalkeeper. After being informed that Birtley had not lost an away game in league or cup this season, the Chairman was wondering if the opposition management had deliberately conceded home advantage! Very few spectators at 7.25 PM, but a late surge of visiting supporters, decked out with hats and scarves gave the atmosphere a real boost at kick-off time.
A very tight game with both defences very well organised and space was at a premium all over the pitch. Very keenly contested with SRCA shading possession with main threat coming from deep runs from Lee Owens and Ash Davis. A lot of great crosses were flying into the Birtley box but unfortunately no RCA forwards getting on the end! Attacking with the slight wind and slope advantage, SRCA were regretting not scoring first half - 0-0 at half time.
Second half Birtley upped the pace a little realising SRCA were going to be tough opposition to overcome and a couple of long range efforts were well saved by the home keeper Innis who was certainly enjoying his debut. Game was still finely in the balance. At 80 mins the visiting Secretary approached the Chairman to confirm that the tie had to be settled tonight - extra time and pens looked on the cards. The Chairman retort was that if it were to be a replay would Birtley want to play at Meadow Park again; this brought a wry smile from all the visiting committee party!
On 82mins the controversial decision by the Referee. A Birtley midfielder hit a free kick just inside the SRCA half straight at head height towards SRCA midfielder Laidler. Unable to get out of the way and covering his face the ball hits his defensive hand. Very harsh indeed ...then unbelievably he was also booked. This meant a second free kick approx 25 yards from goal. Hepple then stepped up to drill home a superb free kick. Ouch!
The home Manager brought Gary Shields on for the last 10 minutes as we piled forward in search of the equaliser, alas it was not to be.
Only one more Cup left to go for this season; hopefully we are due a change of luck!