A good crowd came to Long Road for this derby game...and that was just the two squads playing.

The 4ths battled away throughout but didnt quite have the skill, speed, technique, fitness, ability, nous, or luck to prevent the home team running out winners.

We had a few chances, from breakaway attacks, but didn't have the composure to capitalise. Man of the Match Ian Marshman helped to ensure the midfield context was even, with his terrier-like tackling and running, and was unlucky not to score, hitting narrowly wide with our best chance of the game.

The twin pillars of Alan Radford and James Siddorns in central defence were brilliant, dealing decisively with loose balls and making countless blocks before despatching the ball upfield.

Although the scores were similar in both halves, the second was more even in terms of play as the 4ths stuck to the planned tactics well, and never capitulated.

Thank you to all the players who accepted the myriad substitutions with little complaint, and managed to avoid any confusion over who was playing where.

As a reward for our efforts, next week we have negotiated pizzas for match teas.