Colton AFC 4 - 3 Fairbank United (16.02.19)

These games are always close between the two rivals. Colton snatched a victory in the dying minutes, 4 – 3. It was tough on Fairbank. Akif’s summary from the league website was about spot on.

The visitors scored early (10 minutes) and then extended their lead on 26 minutes when they caught Colton’s defence asleep. Colton were still in the dressing room, unable to get out of their half and create any trouble against a well organised Fairbank defence. Colton’s play was slow and lethargic, Fairbank had the upper hand and took the opportunity.

Fairbank ought to have extended their lead before the break, however two first class stops from Adam Hartley in the Colton net kept the score at 0 – 2 as both teams went for oranges at half time.

A change of strategy and a more forceful approach almost gave Colton an early goal in the second half, however the Fairbank ‘keeper was alert to everything. Especially saving from Jono Goodwin’s fierce strike. Fairbank were resolute and determined to keep Colton out.

Colton pulled a goal back on 67 minutes when Chris Wayman headed in a Goodwin corner. The fire was light and the game very much ... on!

However Fairbank had other ideas and restored their two goal advantage on 80 minutes with a well taken goal. 1 – 3.

A change in formation and personnel was the last throw of the dice for Colton with 10 minutes remaining. Three minutes from normal time, James Green hit a shot that ricocheted against a Fairbank defender in the box and went in off a post.

Colton had the momentum. Pressure was building on the Fairbank defence but they held firm. Then, in stoppage time Goodwin delivered a free kick into the heart of the penalty box which created mayhem, and Colton had equalised. 3 -3.

There wasn’t much time left on the referees watch as Colton tried for the winner, no all the play heading towards the Fairbank goal. It came remarkably with 90 + 3 on the clock as Josh Naylor found himself in space and hit a shot from 35 yards into the top corner of the Fairbank net. 4 – 3 - Cue pandemonium and celebrations.

There was still time for Fairbank to launch one last attack, but the Colton defence dealt with it. The scoreline was tough on Fairbank. They fought hard and deserved more from their performance. However Colton faced up to the reality and dug out to get the three points.

Final score 4 – 3.