LEAGUE CUP QUARTER FINAL

Sub

• Stokes

The League Cup and our last chance for silverware this season, pitched us against division 1 Hanbury. Hanbury used to get the better of us more often than not over previous years and you always get a tough game against them. Both teams’ records this season suggest that defending is their stronger suit, so this could have been a tight affair.

With Ross cup tied and James away, we were down to 12 players. Ryan Hickman made his 1st start in midfield. Matty moved over to the left and Mark was welcomed back after missing the last couple of games.

I found the 1st half very very frustrating as we seemed so incapable of putting any passing together. Poor control would often let us down at the crucial moment. Hanbury were also struggling and the game became very scrappy with the ball going from end to end with little quality.

There was the occasional sign of life from us. Mainly through Ryan Hickman linking up with Halloran up the right hand side. Credit to Ryan who seemed to have the best touch on show during the 1st half.

Our back 4 seemed to take an age to work out how high to hold our line and who was giving the instructions. All 4 lads were playing fine as individuals but there was no real togetherness in what they were doing. We seemed to panic a lot and just slash at the ball. There were many sliced clearances on show and little composure. Lack of communication is still a major issue, particularly between the keeper and the defence. Too often everybody stands and looks at each other and waits for somebody else to take the initiative.

A disappointing half saw just the 1 goal. Halloran once again looked the most impressive and the most likely player on the pitch to score. He forced his way into the box and managed to squeeze the ball past the keeper whilst under pressure. 1-0.

Hanbury should have equalised before the break when a shot hit the bar and a massive scramble in the box saw at least 3 efforts blocked on route to goal.

The 2nd half started slowly but we did eventually kick into gear and manage to play some decent stuff. Graham and Dayle had to work hard early on the half and Jacko and Pete were digging in to keep us in front. Our midfield still seemed struggle particularly in the air and so often the ball was headed straight back at us unchallenged.

Rob was put back on in a 3 man midfield and from this point we finally took control. Mark started to get the ball down and do what he does well and Rob showed glimpses of what he can do with surging runs and tough tackles. It is this type of high energy display that we have missed from Rob at times this season.

We had a great chance to go 2 up when Hickman burst into the box and drew the keeper out. He cleverly squared the ball to Dyl who saw his shot blocked on the line.

The 2nd goal did come and it was almost identical to the last chance. Rob burst through 3 challenges and into the box. He then cut the ball back at pace and Stokesy opened his account for the season with a neat volley that was beautifully put away. 2-0.

Rob and Mark continued to impress in the latter stages and a 3rd goal looked not far away. Dyls corner was met by a stunning Halloran header to make it 3-0. Well done to Mike as this was his 50th goal for the Ravens.

Into the semi finals for the 2nd year running where 3Cs await. An up and down performance at times but a good win, 3 goals and a clean sheet are all good for confidence and next weeks game at Ulverley.

Steve