Mens 4ths versus Lichfield 4ths 7th November

We faced our sternest test so far away on Saturday to a Lichfield 4th team who had been relegated from the premier division last season.

The first twenty minutes were very even and we had a bit of difficulty getting used to the pitch which had a bit more bounce in it than usual. From our first penalty corner Kev Emery cracked a beauty destined for the bottom corner only to see it saved brilliantly by an outstanding Lichfield keeper. We then began to dominate possession and from another short corner we scored through the prolific Anthony Crooks.

The second half saw Lichfield start strongly with a change in formation and Derby were put under sustained pressure for the first time this season. For some reason Anthony Crooks even came back to defend in his own D. Of course he was soon told to go forth and multiply, we all know how centre forwards play in defence. From a goal mouth scramble Lichfield equalised which sent their team and support into raptures as the first side to score against us this season. I saw this as a compliment coming from a club that I think has 9 men's sides and a 1st team that plays at premier league level.

Of course we don't like losing and are used to winning so we did our best to regain the lead and would have done so but for the heroics of the Lichfield no 1 and a very stubborn defence.

Anyway this was an enjoyable day out, and a good test for us. We come out of it slightly bruised but still confident. Well done everyone, great attitude on Saturday. Now who wants some Karaoke tickets?

Derek