Leckhampton put their league ambitions in the hand of others

LRFC Cougars (1) v (2) Charlton Rovers Reds

Against Charlton Rovers Reds LRFC struggled to get a cohesive pattern
of play. There was endeavour and plenty of huffing and puffing but
little quality. As the game wore on discipline was stretched with a
number of fouls being committed all serving to break up play and hand
the initiative to CR.

LRFC started playing up the slope and had the better of early
exchanges although didn't really have a shot. Seeming to want to walk
the ball into the net. As the half wore on there was some frustration
but the game was still there to be won.

LRFC then gave away a penalty. This was despatched by CR who sent Will
the wrong way.

1-0 and how it would be at half time.

The message at half time had to be to have a shot, to actually make an
attempt on goal. LRFC responded well second half but could not get the
goal they needed. As they pressed forward CR caught them on the break
with the striker scoring bravely as the LRFC defender and keeper close
him down. The ball bouncing into an empty net.

The LRFC response was to go to a back 3, play 5 in midfield and 2 up
front. Whilst this was a departure from their usual formation this is
not something they haven't played before. In their desire to get back
into the game there was too much individual play and not enough team
play.

What got this LRFC team the fantastic results early in the season was
quick passing, using the width of the pitch and turning teams around.
CR defended deep so all the more reason to use guile to beat them.
What LRFC did instead was try to take them on.

CR could easily have gone 3 up but for Will's heroics. With the
striker bearing down on goal Will saved at his feet and reacted
quicker than everyone to push away the loose ball as it bobbled up.
Brave and decisive keeping.

That could have been a catalyst for LRFC to press forward and secure
the points. They did pull a goal back, for the second week running
from Jacobs head, the ball crossed and Jacob scoring well.

LRFC then ran out of time.

After the game the LRFC heads were down and there was no margin for
error in the league campaign. With Lydney beating Painswick 1-0 they
are now in the box seat. What this LRFC side needs to do now is pick
themselves up and finish the season as they started it. There are
times for further twists in this campaign. It is though out of their
hands.

Jacob was Motm in this game, run close by Alf and Will. When all
around were losing their heads he kept doing to the simple things and
playing the way LRFC plays. Head up passing the ball, winning tackles,
winning headers and getting the goal.

This LRFC side has not become a bad team overnight and the disruptions
to the season have not helped their cause. They have an opportunity to
regain some pride this coming Sunday away to Cinderford.