Saturday 6th October 2012 @ Maypole FC

South Birmingham 4 – 2 Erdington and Saltley (Joshua S, Zane)

I hate losing more than I actually enjoy winning. However, today I experienced something new. I was actually happy at the final whistle, despite losing a match! All fourteen boys who played today should be immensely proud of their efforts, especially during the second half.

Worryingly Erdington and Saltley once again started off scrappily after going a goal behind early on. Things never improved and The Ton conceded a second goal midway through the first half. It was no more than South Birmingham deserved after playing some great attacking football. However, The Ton reduced the deficit from the penalty spot after Josh S converted from the spot following some great play from the scintillating Trey. Bursting into the box after running past three players, Trey was hacked down by the stranded South player. The late goal filled the boys with enthusiasm, although it could have been different had South converted their own penalty when leading 2 – 0.

Starting the second half like a team possessed, The Ton threw everything they had at South and caused their powerful rivals many problems. This attacking vigour brought rewards. A fierce Jayden free kick was pounced upon by Zane following a neat save from the South keeper and a goal mouth scramble. Somehow and against all odds, The Ton were level with just over five minutes remaining on the clock. It could have got even better for The Ton, had Trey connected with a beauty of a cross from Darrelle. However, the box-to-box midfielder missed by the narrowest of margins.The game swung once again when South scored two late goals to take a 4-2 lead. There was even more drama in store when The Ton won a second penalty, although Joshua was unable to convert it on this occasion.

Regardless of the scoreline, I am exceptionally proud of everyone of the boys. The season has started off well for us and I’m so excited about the season ahead.

Team: Alex T, Sam, William, Michael, Jayden, Josh S, Trey, Ethan (Karter), Ellis Jay (Zane), Cedric (Darelle), Sahib

Referee’s MOM: Treymaine

Up The Ton!