Chemfica Crushed By Old Novocastrians In League Clash

On 6th October 2024, Chemfica faced off against Old Novocastrians at Coach Lane in a league home match that ended in a disappointing 1-4 defeat for the home side. The match kicked off at 10:30 am, and the outcome left Chemfica with much to ponder as they look to improve in future fixtures.

Chemfica lined up in a 3-5-2 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for width and creativity in midfield. Christopher Beers took his place in goal, shielded by a back three consisting of Ali Harris in the centre, flanked by Ben Hannan on the right and Jon Batty on the left. The midfield was packed with David Shotton on the right, Mpumi Nyembe, Josh Leonard, and George Wright in central roles, and Jake Newton providing width on the left. Up front, Joe Wilkinson and Charlie Glasgow were tasked with leading the line as forwards.

The substitutes for Chemfica included Mark Tremaine, Jake Mcpherson, Louis Edwards, Liam Heenan, and Michael Quinn, who would be called upon later in the match as the situation unfolded.

The match began with Chemfica taking an early lead in the 12th minute when Charlie Glasgow scored a tap-in, giving the home side a glimmer of hope. However, the joy was short-lived as Old Novocastrians responded swiftly. Just five minutes later, they equalised, with a goal that shifted the momentum firmly in their favour.

Old Novocastrians continued to dominate the first half, scoring two more goals in quick succession at the 25th and 29th minutes, leaving Chemfica reeling. The home side's defensive frailties were exposed as they struggled to contain the visitors' attacking prowess.

In the 30th minute, Chemfica was forced into an early substitution due to injury, with Mark Tremaine replacing Jon Batty. The situation worsened for Chemfica as they lost another player to injury shortly after, with Charlie Glasgow making way for Jake Mcpherson in the 35th minute.

Old Novocastrians capitalised on Chemfica's misfortunes, adding a fourth goal just before half-time in the 40th minute, leaving the home side trailing 1-4 at the break. The referee blew the whistle for half-time, and Chemfica had a mountain to climb in the second half.

After the interval, Chemfica made tactical changes to try and regain control of the match. In the 63rd minute, Louis Edwards came on for Josh Leonard, followed by Liam Heenan replacing Joe Wilkinson in the 67th minute. Finally, Michael Quinn entered the fray in the 74th minute, taking over from George Wright.

Despite the changes, Chemfica struggled to find their rhythm and could not breach the resolute Old Novocastrians defence. The visitors maintained their lead comfortably, and the match ended with Chemfica unable to add to their solitary goal. The final whistle confirmed a 4-1 victory for Old Novocastrians, leaving Chemfica to reflect on a challenging performance and the need for improvement in their upcoming matches.