Raptors Slump To Defeat

The first 20 minutes of the match saw both teams equal to each other. Chances were created, but neither team could capitalise on them.

Sportsman took the lead as a ball over the Raptors defence was taken down by the striker on his chest, and finished off. 1-0

A freekick awarded to Sportsman just inside Raptors half. A ball over the top wasnt dealt with, and the ball fell to the striker who was brought down by Big Dave, and the referee gave the penalty. It was put away, and Raptors were 2-0 down.

Raptors had chances. Kevin Deverick with a huge chance. Collecting the ball after being put through, saw him fire just wide.

Kingsley then picked up a ball outside the area and smashed it goalswards, only to see it come off the bar.

Sportsman had some more chances, but Big David Adams pulling off some excellent saves again, kept it at just 2-0.

Half time and Raptors knew that they didnt deserve to be 2 down.

The second half saw a different mentality from Raptors, who wanted to give more and knew that the game wasn't over.

Raptors kept attacking and were awarded a penalty after Tommy was brought down. Thomas Tompkins stepped up and took the penalty, only to see the GK save it.

Raptors didnt give up and saw Jason pick up the ball, weaving around a few defenders before putting a mice ball through to Kingsley Lambert who smashed the ball home into the top of the net. 2-1.

Another foul on Tommy ( which I believe was inside the area) saw the ref give Raptors a freekick just outside the area. Kingsley took it, but didnt test the GK.

Sportsman then went up the other end after playing some nice football and the striker shot low under Big Dave, and saw the ball nestle in the bottom right. 3-1.

A to me, to you moment saw the roles reversed for Raptors, as Kingsley put a ball through to Jason Fleeting who finished off with a pearler into the far right corner. 3-2

Then came a brilliant goal from Adam Constable. A free kick awarded to Raptors from around 35yards, saw Adam take the quick freekick that saw it lob the GK and ripple the net, but the referee denied the goal (although after the game, said it should've stood).

Fulltime

With a solid display at the back, Adam Constable picked up the MOTM bottle.

Reflecting on the game, 2 of their goals were down to Raptors errors for not winning the ball, which had they been intercepted, wouldve seen us come out as winners.

A brief 5 minutes not being aware cost us the game, but can not fault the teams response in the second half. Everyone upped their game and showed the commitment and passion we want.

A special mention goes out to Jamie Frear who although injured, turned up ready to play. Which is more than can be said for players that were down to play and never showed up, without any explanation!