Earley Gunners earned a 3 - 3 draw against an indisciplined Shinfield Lions Res team. Gunners made a terrible start by conceeding two goals in the first ten minutes and Roger Bungay making a rare appearance in goal was also called into action to make a good close range save to keep the score down.
After a brief tactical change, Gunners began to get back into the game and scored through Iain Peer. Iain then made it two after curling in a great free kick. Shinfield Lions Res, looked reasonably tidy on the ball but their tackling left a lot to be desired and Gunners were frequently being awarded free kicks which also resulted in a Shinfield player being booked. The half time score was 2-2.
The second half saw the game continue in the same manner with Shinfield consistently fouling the Gunners players which eventually resulted in a Shinfield Lions player being sent off for a nasty looking challenge which resulted in Carl Littlechild not being able to continue the game.
However, the fact that the opposition were reduced to ten men seemed to lift them and Gunners seemed to relax. Shinfield took the lead after being awarded a penalty for a foul by Paul Marten which was converted.
Gunners had several chances to get level notably through Paul Stout and Matt Rees. Kenny Bunce was also involved in the action when he made a surging run towards goal and eventually collided with the keeper who had tried to save the ball. The Shinfield keeper was replaced by an outfield player.
With a few minutes to spare Paul Clark was fouled in the box and Iain Peer scored the penalty to earn Gunners a draw. Gunners "Man of the Match" was Paul Clark for a good display in midfield. Unfortunately, the game was somewhat spoilt by the opposition who continuously barracked the referee throughout the game and after the final whistle had blown.
Match Facts:
MOM : P Clark
Goals : I Peer (3)
Team
