Colton AFC 1 - 1 Shire Academics Res (09.03.19)

In difficult windy conditions, the top two sides at the start of play cancelled each other out.

Shire settled first.

Their quick short passing created a few challenges for Colton and the home team were grateful to Adam Hartley in net for pulling off a few high class saves. Shire had the momentum, and pressed the home team well.

Colton eventually got their act together and almost took the lead from a corner. Rob Ashworth rose but saw his header go slightly over. Jordan Thackery put in a teasing cross but the keeper blocked Josh Naylor’s shot.

However, it was Shire that looked the most threatening going forward and the Colton defence had to work extremely hard to block shots, make tackles and clear crosses.

Just before the half time whistle however Colton took the lead. A free kick from Naylor was too hot to handle for the Shire ‘keeper and there was Tom Whelan to score his 3rd goal of the season to tap in.

Half time 1 – 0

Colton started the second half brightly, with more assertiveness and better passing. Shire kept the hosts out though and on 61 minutes equalised.

This gave Shire more belief and Colton were again indebted to Hartley in their net for making some outstanding stops, particularly two 1 v 1 situations late on in the game.

The game was very even afterwards, and neither side were able to find the elusive winner despite much huffing and puffing.

Final score 1 – 1

These teams play against each other next week for the reverse fixture.