Gunners continued their recent run of form with a 2-0 win against Ruscombe.
Ruscombe caused Gunners a few early problems before Gunners started to settle into the game and Gunners look a little rusty after the Xmas break. Ruscombe had some early possession and worked the ball well down both flanks but could not turn this into clear cut chances.
Ruscombe did have the first chance on goal when a shot bounced awkwardly but was collected by the keeper.
Gunners did have a few counter-attacking opportunities although a couple of positions were harshly adjudged to have been off-side. However Bill Maslin did make an opening and had a great chance to score when he was one on one with the keeper who managed to block the ball and made a good save.
Steve Smith made an early departure when he felt unwell and was physically sick by the touchline and he was soon replaced by Steve Tranter.
Peter Ali also had a chance to score late in the first half when Steve Tranter played a cross in and Peters lob was parried off for a corner by the keeper.
The half time score was 0-0.
In the second half, an injury to Marcus Randles saw him leave the field to be replaced by Paul Stout.
The pattern of the game followed the first with Ruscombe having more possession but Gunners counter-attacked well and created the clearest openings.
Both Bill Maslin and Steve Tranter had one on one efforts on goal saved by the Ruscombe keeper who was playing well.
The best piece of football came from a neat passing move involving Dave, Richard and Stouty which resulted in a chance for Gunners.
Towards the end of the half Ruscombe forced a number of corners which Gunners defended well and from one of these Paul Marten broke forward and played a through ball to Paul Ali who lobbed the keeper from an angle but had to wait a few seconds as the ball slowly bounced its way towards the goal before finally clipping the post and going in, Gunners had a 1-0 lead with about ten minutes to go.
Gunners then made the game safe a few minutes later when Bill Maslin broke forward and was brought down by the keeper in the box. He subsequently converted the penalty to make it 2-0.
Gunners shut up shop for the last few minutes to earn the win. It was a good effort all round although Dave Owen and Richard Alderton both played well but Man of the Match was awarded to Paul Marten
Match Facts
MOM : P Marten
Goals : Pa Ali (1), B Maslin (1)
Team
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