Shinfield endured another tough fixture against Barton Rovers this weekend, yet again reinforcing what a challenging and disappointing run of games this is proving to be for the boys in blue.
Both teams showed great respect before the start of the game with a minute’s applause for a Barton Rovers player who had sadly passed away in the week. What a tragedy and a sombre reminder of perhaps the more important things in life….
It’s hard to write a report of the game when the team were on the end of an 8-0 thumping. They were up against a very strong and direct team, who had pace and presence all over the pitch. It could have been a more demoralising scoreline had it not been for the qualities that I would like to share …..
I was amazed by our boys’ commitment and determination to keep going right up until the final whistle. They worked tirelessly to try and stem the tide as wave after wave of Rovers attacks swept forward. Alex made some wonderful saves including a flying one-handed stop that belies his rookie status. Harley, on his debut displayed great tenacity and drive from the heart of midfield. His energy inspired his teammates to keep battling. Ash was always encouraging and directing his team from the back and this combined with Cam’s stubbornness meant the scoreline was this low.
At the risk of sounding like a cliche-laden Premier League manager grasping for excuses, the team are struggling and not getting any breaks. Their tough start in a tough league continues, their small squad has had injuries and key players unavailable but hopefully after the half term break, they will return together and see some rewards for their endeavours…
Score – Shinfield 0 Barton Rovers 8
Reported by Helen