BRITISH GAS BUSINESS FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIVISION 1 SOUTH AND WEST
City’s last away match of the season was something of an anti-climax as nothing hung on the result and both teams fielded experimental sides. City, because Manager Andy Leader wanted to look at some of the reserves and Hillingdon because they have a Southern League cup final coming up. The meagre crowd of just 69 probably reflected the lack of interest in the match.
City had a let off in the first minute when Andy Smallpiece was forced into a save, pushing the ball over the bar from a defensive header! In City’s first attack Martin Rogers, making his first Team debut, did well to win the ball on the edge of the box but his shot was wide. Hillingdon had the majority of possession without really threatening and an accurate cross by Dave Allen just alluded Steve Llewelyn who was in a good shooting position for City.
The home side took the lead in the 21st minute when a deflected shot from Sam Byfield went for a corner and from the resultant kick Mark Kirby headed home at the near post. At the other end James O’Keeffe headed across goal but unfortunately the ball ran on and Richard Gregory was unable to control it before it crossed the touchline. Liam Gilbert set up another chance for City but again the ball beat Gregory into touch.
City started the second half strongly and Allen was just beaten to a cross by the Hillingdon keeper when well placed. Neither side really looked dangerous in front of goal and after 58 minutes manager Andy Leader made a triple substitution to allow three more youngsters a taste of Southern League football. Gregeory, O’Keeffe and Andy Jacob came off to be replaced by Ross Diaper, TJ McClory- Cuthbertson and Nathan Miles. McClory-Cuthertson shot over the bar with almost his first kick and then Allen put a header over the bar from a free kick as City sought the equaliser.
With time running out Hillingdon sewed up the points. George Mapes hit the foot of the post and Lawrence picked up the clearance to shoot home across Smallpiece for a fine individual effort.Just after, City lost the services of Rogers who limped off after being fouled and although he returned he was a passenger for the last ten minutes. Just before the final whistle City had the chance to cut the lead when Allen controlled the ball and slipped a pass to McClory-Cuthbertson who shot wide.
City: Andrew Smallpiece, James Wilson, Adam Lang, Liam Gilbert, James Eyles, Steve Llewelyn, Richard Gregory, Dave Allen, Martin Rogers, James O’Keefe, Andy Jacob Substitutes: Ross Diaper (58th), Nathan Miles, Warren Bentley (58th), Ross Diaper (58th).
This Saturday City complete their season at home to Newport and immediately following the match the awards for the season will be made.
