Mens 2nds Vs Worksop 24/09/11 - Winning Ways

This week was the final friendly before the new season and the 2nd team wanted to continue to build confidence and fitness.

Captain Mike wanting to try a number of formation changes though out the match to see how the team currently works.

From the push Derby looked the stronger and more composed with early chances not securing the vital lead. Stuart and Jez providing vital stability in the centre for Alex and Pete to attack from both sides.

The breakthrough came in the first half with a shot from Pete being slipped in on a rebound by John. Worksop soon found there voice and pushed back for a quick equaliser.

A little surprised Derby continued to play there own game with Dave and Tom guiding the back four allowing Tom H and Smiley the opportunity to push the play deep into the Worksop half.

The second goal was a fine Pete effort with Dalraj providing the supporting passes in centre mid. Surely Derby had the game in hand that more goals would continue to flow?

Unfortunately a scrappy final 10 minutes allowed Worksop a cheap goal and Mikes disappointment was clear for the team to see. Rambo then took the restart and got the best of the last defender to be one on one with the Worksop keeper. He slipped past the keeper and was clear on goal before the loose (deliberate?) trip brought Rambo to the floor and no flick or short awarded to the confusion of all the Derby boys.

The half time talk allowed Mike to remind the team to remain calm and focus on what we wanted to learn from the match. Switching the team and pushing John to centre forward with Rambo.

The second half started nervous and both sides had equal chances. A well timed pass from Jez let John take a strike from the top for the keeper to just get enough on the shot that the ball stopped after falling out the pads. Pete returned the first half favour to finish the rebound and regain the lead and his second of the match.

Fitness then started to show and Derby dropped back defensive. Multiple attacks from Worksop were creating difficulties for the back four. In an effort to create an outlet Alex pushed up allowing John to drop back and for Jez to bring calm in the midfield.

Dave also pushed forwards and through this change of play Derby won a short and Dave converted 5 minutes from time to secure the final score of 2-4 Derby win.

All signs are positive for next week in the first league game away to Nottingham Players.

Man of the Match – Alex, under pressure throughout but never stopped running and providing vital outlets for the back.

Dick of the Day – Tom W, mainly for three separate attempted clearances from the Derby defence and only finding the ball was still at his feet.
Away Tea Rating – 8 out of 10, Pie and mushy peas. Good quality and enjoyed by all.