Men's 2nd XI vs Gravesham & Wellcome M2

A disappointing afternoon for Cliftonville and the 11-game unbeaten streak finally came to an end.

Right from the off something wasn't quite right, Ville were unable to impose themselves in the game. Ville did manage to take the lead mid-way through the 1st half when Will fizzed a ball in from the baseline to find Perks who made it 1-0. However, we were far from comfortable.

Frustratingly a very contentious penalty corner was awarded to Gravesham on the stroke of half time. A very well worked routine and the ball was neatly deflected into the roof of the Ville net. 1-1 at half time.

Despite a half time team talk rallying the troops, Ville couldn't replicate the performances we have been accustomed to. Nothing seemed to click.

Ten minutes into the 2nd half they scored again from another short corner to make it 2-1.

The final twenty minutes the game turned a little more physical and challenges were flying in. In quick succession one Gravesham player wiped out two Cliftonville players, initially no card for their player was forthcoming. After a little coming together between the Gravesham player and Perks, both teams found themselves down to 10 men for a spell.

With the final hit of the game, Gravesham on the break scored again.

Frustrating afternoon after beating the league leaders the previous week. Our slim chance of winning the league may now have disappeared but with 4 games remaining we need a faultless finish to try and secure 2nd place.

MOTM - Dave W and Will for their efforts

DOD - Perks for spending some time on the sideline 🟨

SQUAD:

·        John Barrett (Capt), Will Ainsworth, Matthew Bates, Ed Burt, Seb Cox, David Hooper, Simon Hooper, James Hughes, James Perks, Adam Sidders, Jack Sweeney-MacQueen, Dave Walkom, Daniel West.