Pacers 1 – 2 Crabs

By Ed

Putney Pacers knew a win on Sunday against Sporting Crabs at South Park would guarantee their place in Division 3 next season. At half time, everything was going to plan with the Pacers playing some excellent football and earning a 1-0 lead. However, they were made to rue a host of missed opportunities as Sporting Crabs managed to sneak two past Antonio, who had another exceptional game in goal.

Pacers lined up with Nash and Ash sitting in front of Antonio, with Ben at left back and Oli at right back. In the middle were Spracks and Alex, with Ed and Robert on the wings. John played at number 10, providing support to Dan who was the lone striker.

Pacers started brightly and put plenty of pressure on the Crab defence. 20 minutes in, Nash delivered a pinpoint free kick onto the crossbar and back into the box to set up Ash, who slotted the ball home from close range – a move that clearly came straight from the training ground.

Pacers continued to control the game and threatened the Crab goal with a number of strikes from distance – if it wasn’t for the angle of the sun making things difficult for the Putney attack, they would surely have built on their lead.

One change at half time saw a straight swap, with Guy coming on for Robert on the left wing.

The second half started where the first left off, with Putney looking comfortable and creating chances – but unable to convert their efforts into goals. Meanwhile, the Crab attack made the most of the few goal scoring opportunities they had and put two past Putney. Despite a late charge from Pacers, Crabs went on to win the game 1-2.

Pacers showed glimpses of their full potential and can certainly feel aggrieved to walk away empty handed. However, Putney can take heart from their performance – particularly the first half – and approach the final two games of the season with confidence – and in the knowledge that their fate still lies in their own hands.