CHUFC 2 - 2 ROFFEY

A 4-point return from back-to-back games against the top 2 is an excellent return but it could have been a maximum 6 points but our 2 goal lead was clawed back and so a draw it was.

In all honesty, we were very much second best early on and perhaps Roffey will believe they should have been in front before we scored with our first real attack 10 minutes in. Despite not having much possession I was happy with our defensive shape and although our opponents had got near to our goal we looked reasonably secure. The goal was a bonus as I just wanted the ball put into our attacking 3rd and having done that and scored, the message to the players was to be a bit more direct as further opportunities would follow. I was grateful to get the break in front as without doubt we had a few let-offs and for once that bit of good fortune that you need was on our side.

It was clear at the break that the players had put another big shift in and that the substitutes would play a part. The message was to remain disciplined and when we regained the ball to play fast and with an energy that might affect Roffeys defence. Immediately after the break a few of the lads began to tire and so the substitutions started to get some energy into our midfield. It had the desired effect and Just after the hour having won the ball back I was pleased at the speed of our attack, and although initially disappointed that the referee hadn’t played the advantage and allowed our counter-attacking goal to stand, it was quickly forgotten as we converted the resulting penalty.

I knew it wasn’t done as we seemed to have less and less of the ball but with a great defensive shape, we looked to be heading towards the win. The 2 late goals that pegged us back possibly could have been dealt with better but it was an immense push from the lads to get another positive result and I have no real complaints. We had 2 great chances at the end of the game to pinch it but probably a draw was the fair result.

Our next match is Saturday 30th March v Montpelier Villa, KO 3pm at home.

Glynn Stephens
First team manager