Banbury post match reaction
Saturday 06 March 2010
Midland Football Combination Reserve Division
Banbury United Reserves 1-2 The Mikes Reserves
The Mikes moved up two places to fourth in the table as they recorded a hard-fought first away league victory in windy conditions at the Spencer Stadium. Incredibly, some seven months into the season, this was only their fourth league fixture on the road.
With a lively pitch and blustery wind, it was a scrappy affair at times and The Mikes had to dig in hard for the points. Mark Mason gave them the lead, but the home side hit back and capitalised on The Mikes temporarily being down to ten men, equalising while Ceiran McLean received treatment.
The Mikes turned in a strong second half performance, working hard to protect the 2-1 lead secured via Johaine Thompson’s 20th goal of the season.
Joint-Manager Rob Clarke reflected “Conditions were awkward and it was difficult at times to play our usual brand of football. They had the better of a scrappy first half, but we carved out some good chances. At half time, I challenged them to accept that they had to do the ugly things for 45 minutes and take the few opportunities that they would get to play. They delivered on both fronts, and we created two lovely goals on the day. It was the kind of game we struggled with early season, so I’m absolutely delighted with the win.”
The Mikes Reserves are back at home next Wednesday 10th March. Oadby Town Reserves visit the Trevor Brown Memorial Ground for their Quarter Final tie in the Midland Combination Challenge Trophy.
Please note that this match kicks off at 7:15pm
