Written by Callum Rudman
Rocks enjoy safe passage into the next round of the Essex Border League Knock Out Cup
In a change of pace from recent games, the home side started this first round cup match slowly, with the visitors enjoying most of the early possession. They attempted to make the most of this, hitting the bar early, seeing the ball bounce over. After this the Rocks seemed to wake up a little bit, with frontman Harry Salter putting a dangerous ball into the box, however it was just too much for Harry Prince to connect with. The hosts were punished shortly after as Thorpe broke free and played the ball across the box, the ball being tapped into an empty net. The entirety of the first half was disappointing for the home side and never seemed to get going, with many balls being over hit and passes being inaccurate. There were chances for both sides, but neither capitalised on these.
The second half started much more brightly for the hosts and with only a few minutes on the clock, Tommy Barnacle was sent through one on one with the keeper. He kept his composure and brought the game level. There must have been some stern words at half time, because Rocks seemed to wake up after the break, as they were repeatedly getting the ball into the opposing box and testing the keeper. The hosts kept up this pressure on goal, whilst ensuring they performed their defensive duties solidly. One of these long balls fell to Harry Salter who shook off the struggling defender and calmly put it past the keeper, giving the hosts the lead for the first time in the match. Things got even better for the home side when Ross Barnes added a third shortly after. Thorpe tried to make a comeback with a few late attempts, however they were unable to do so, the match ending 3-1. The Rocks march on to Round 2, where they will meet Sudbury Sports F.C at home on 25th October.
Next up is a home match against Gas Recreation on Saturday 20th September at Wyldecrest Sports County Club, kick-off 15:00.
LINEUP:
1 Tommy Bruley
3 Louis Sharkey
6 Marcus Bella
7 Bobby Reeman
8 Tommy Barnacle
10 Kieron Miles
11 Bailey Morris
14 Ray Snares
16 Kieran Case
20 Harry Prince
21 Harry Salter
SUBS:
5 Faith Segemani
9 Ross Barnes
15 Kieran Woodman
17 Joey Purdy
18 Ben Tugwood