Knowle Grind Out Win

Ronald Crane reports from The Draintech Community Ground

On a cold winter’s afternoon, these two sides served up an exciting match, played at high pace with a great deal of skill on display. The Robins fielded two new signings, Khalil Harrison in defence, and Hayden James Perves in attack. Both performed well, although it was unfortunate that Perves had to be substituted after half an hour, with injury. How serious the injury is, we await news.

In the first half there was little between the teams - although The Robins had the majority of the play, Rangers always looked dangerous on the break.  Craig Johnson had just one, very easy, shot to save, whereas Jack Hartop at the other end was kept busy. On a bone hard and bumpy pitch, the level of skill was high from both teams. Referee Collett was sparing in his use of the whistle, and of cards.

This was a real football match, yet with defences on top. For all their presence in the Rangers half, one wondered if Knowle would ever score.

Kicking off fifteen minutes late because of the late arrival of one of the Assistant Referees, the talk at half time was whether the match would end before the darkness took over. As it turned out, this did not prove a problem.

Right from the start of the second half, The Robins took control of the match. Their mid-field trio of Bennett, Scott, and Staley were dominant and made sure the visitors were living off scraps as far as attack was concerned. In defence, however, Rangers were resolute and stubborn. In fact, during the second half Rangers did little more than defend.

Six minutes from the end, Tom Craine headed home a Corner in a real six-yard box scramble. The ball was hooked clear by a well placed defender. Had it gone over the goal-line or not? The Assistant Referee had no doubt and was emphatic in his signal of a goal. There were cheers were of joy and relief.

But the drama had not ended. In the ninety-sixth minute Referee Collett awarded Knowle a penalty. It was a clear decision to make. Jay Rendell stepped up and for the second week running, Knowle allowed the ‘Keeper to save the spot kick. Shortly after this, it was all over and The Robins had secured all three points. They had, quite literally, ground out a win.

Knowle FC; Johnson; Harrison (Taylor); Riddiford; Clarke; McArdle (c); Bennett; James Perves (Corry); Staley; Craine [84]; Scott (O’Donnell); Mullen (Rendell). Not used Sinton.