Davenham were welcomed to Middlewich FC Stadium and their first game in the Mid Cheshire First Division. Following recent close games with Middlewich, another exciting encounter was anticipated. It was the hosts who started the brighter of the two teams and Middlewich rattled the Davenham crossbar in the first five minutes with a towering header. Davenham took fifteen minutes to get into their rhythm and importantly, although man-marking, continued to struggle with the opposition No.3. However, the Goldmen weathered the storm with Sam Hill dominating the Davenham defence, confidence started to spread through the team. Kennerley stung the keepers hands, with a rasping drive from outside the box and Hodnett burst past the last line of defence to see a screamer zip inches wide. At the other end Wallwork saved well from a low drive. The last 20 minutes of the first half, saw both teams cancel each other out and with few chances for either team, the boys went in at H-T 0:0. The Davenham management felt that with a change in gear for either team the game was probably there for the taking. Unfortunately, it was Middlewich who took the initiative, with their midfielder evading two tackles before prodding past Wallwork. 1:0 to Middlewich. The goal seemed to rattle the Goldmen and 5 minutes later, poor defensive play saw a cross parried to the opposition striker who nodded home and a double blow for Davenham.
With once again, injuries, sickness and below par performances from some players, the management worked hard to keep some momentum to the Davenham play. Sam Hill and Buzzer battled relentlessly in defence, while Kirkness and Shaw worked their socks off in midfield and to their credit, Davenham had the last 15 minutes and on another day couldve notched a couple of goals themselves. Kennerley and Hodnett both went close with shots which were well saved by the Middlewich keeper, who continues to impress.
However, it wasnt to be and Davenham went down with a disappointing first day loss. Its the first game played in the UK where they have failed to score and the first ever league game loss. On the positive side there were some very credible performances with Sam Hill and Buzzer leading the way.
Middlewich were worthy of the three points, (well done Nathan and team!) but there really wasnt much in the game. Lapses of concentration cost Davenham dearly and thats a wake up call to all. From the manager down to the players, we all need to pick ourselves up, roll our sleeves up and focus on the next game. There wasnt too much wrong with our game at Middlewich and the team will definitely come back stronger. Next Sunday, Davenham travel to Congleton Rovers and a tremendous away support for the lads is called for. C'mon the Davenham!!
MOTM: Hill
Clean Sheets: Wadsworth, Stitch, Hodnett
-- Edited by chris wad on Monday 10th of September 2012 09:04:21 AM
