Kartel Treble Keeps Knowle in Contention

Dave Sykes reports from Bloxwich

As we reach the sharp send of the season, Knowle faced a tricky away fixture over in Bloxwich. The strong wind blew in the same direction of the slope of the pitch which had a profound affect on the opening ten minutes. Lane Head’s keeper nearly scored with a punt but Craig Johnson was equal to the threat! The next few goal kicks allowed the defence to position themselves but this direct approach showed everyone how good the Robins defence is. Gradually Knowle started to dominate. 

Dylan Bennett anchored the midfield and did all the covering and unglamorous stuff. Meanwhile the more attack minded players started to enjoy themselves. The impressive Ben Jones proved what a threat he was in dead ball situations but his controlled headed effort just cleared the bar. Next up George Seeley held his head in his hands after his well placed header was clawed away by the keeper. Seeley again had a good chance as he weaved his way along the goal line but the defence crowded him out before he could shoot. 

A goal had to come and it did so shortly after Nathan Corry hit a pile driver that just shaded the top of the bar. Great effort! It was a terrific goal to be fair as Kartel O’Neil-Martin was well and truly in the mood. He controlled the cross beautifully just inside the area, dummied right, turned left and hit an unstoppable shot into the corner. His personal supporters club of about 15 were in their element. Knowle were in full flow now as O’Neil-Martin threaded a delightful ball through to the talented Taylor Blythe who drew the keeper and rolled it wide of his left hand. Knowle supporters didn’t want the show to end but sadly the ref blew up for half time.

 After a cup of tea, the entertainment restarted with a mad scramble in the Lane Head goal. At least four attackers tried but failed to breech the desperate defenders. It wasn’t long before O’Neil-Martin showed his talent and composure again. Jones had been moved effectively into midfield as Joe Sinton was injured. Jones measured his pass to O’Neil-Martin perfectly and he made no mistake in front of his now delirious supporters as he lobbed the ball over the keeper and Knowle were three up! The linking play between Knowle’s attackers and midfield was of the highest order. Next up was Lewis Clarke, who had a fine game in defence, came up for a corner. As the move broke down the ball came out to Lewis who neatly beat his man and cannoned a shot against the bar. Quite breath taking! Other chances were created and missed until O’Neil-Martin scored his deserved third goal and hat trick. The ball was played through by the hard working Corry and it became a race between O’Neil-Martin and their keeper. It was brave, it was exciting and it was Knowle’s 4th goal!

Knowle’s season will be decided in the next four matches with three trophies all within their grasp. Good luck to Matt, Clive and the lads who have worked so hard for nine months.