The day of the local derby had finally arrived. Both Focus Ferrers teams were ready despite unavailability of a full team selection on both sides. The Elmwood Stadium was packed to the rafters, tickets had sold out months ago. The pitch was inspected earlier in the day and given the all clear by the officials despite the rainfall, let the games begin....

 

Lions won the toss and took centre, Tigers won possession and showed us all what they were capable of with some excellent passing moves. It was end to end football and both teams displaying their skills as well as how they've both developed over the past year. Jake Miall was in his new found position this season of right midfield and really got involved in the early stages along the right flank. Jake was rewarded with the all important first goal in the third minute after a goal mouth scramble.

 

The Tigers started this week with George Bass upfront, the rock-solid midfield of William Putt, Daniel Woolmer and in the absence of injured Daniel Whitley (get well soon Daniel!!) Jake Miall. In defence was Mitchell Dean and Connor Unwin as well as Tommy Unwin. Callum Abbott and Harry Blenkarn played an important supporting role for the midfielders today. A special mention to Lukas Darby in his first season in goal for the Tigers saw him tipping shots over the bar on more than one occasion.

 

For much of the first half the Tigers controlled the ball with excellent passing movements as well as confident defending when the Tigers goal came under threat. The Tigers second goal came on 23 minutes when William Putt ran down the left flank to knock the ball in and George Bass rose like the proverbial salmon and nodded past Alex to give the Tigers a 2 goal cushion.

 

Despite the scoreline the Lions remained a constant threat with a rock solid defence and a strike force hungry to put the ball in the back of the net. The second half was more of a battle for the Tigers and the Lions were duly rewarded with a deserved goal. In the latter stages there was some heart in the mouth moments when the Lions ball went precariously close to the Tiger's goal mouth, The referee - Andy Franklin wrapped things up on 51 minutes and the 3 points went to the Tigers on this occasion. Well done to both teams, Managers, friends and family for their attitude and respect throughout the game.

 

Man of the Match: William Putt, safe, secure and solid midfielder and Tigers Captain. A tricky decision this week because of the all round team effort, however William's focus throughout the game earned him the MOTM award.

 

Steve, Richard and Mike.