AFC Old Town sccored two goals late in the second half to ensure an insurmountable lead over the Stormers and see out a win.
Barnes lined up with a very different looking squad to the opening weekend with injuries and social commitments playing a part. The changes gave an opportunity to players to stake a claim for a starting spot and to give another couple of players their debuts with Tom getting a debut in the starting line up and Alex from the bench.
Barnes started off well but it was AFC Old Town that took the lead grabbing two goals early on in the first half after some good play. The Stormers rallied and started to get their foot on the ball and started to move it around the middle of the park more. There were few chances until an eagle eyed CT spotted the opposition keeper off his line and decided to emulate David Beckham with a lob from the near the half way line (in opposition territory) to make it 2-1. With the game nearing half time, Barnes made another raid into the opposition box and a parried shot fell awkwardly to David who was able to deflty adjust his body position and head home on the stroke of half time.
Unfortunately for Barnes, a few injuries meant more personnel changes with Paul, often used as a winger, coming on to fill in at LB. He did a great job in a new position helping to keep the opposition at bay for long spells. Helped by Matt Reynolds who dropped to CB winning numerous aerial duels alongside namesake Matt and captain Mo.
On came sub Alex for his debut and he made an immediate impact with two chances to put Barnes ahead early in the second half. Unable to beat the keeper, the Stormers were left wondering, 'what if'?
However, even with the Barnes lads working tirelessley the defensive display was eventually worn down as AFC Old Town scored a 3rd goal to take the lead. Heads dipped slightly but still the Stormers pushed on with runs down the wing into the Old Town area. Despite this the team were unable to create many more chances and with tiring legs, they succumbed to a late 4th goal before the final whistle brought an end to the match.
Player of the Match goes to CT for his long range lob which dragged us back into the game but notable shout outs to Matt R who put in a big shift in at CB and also Alex and Tom who made fine debuts for the team.
The result leaves Barnes at 6th in the table after 2 games and with work to do to start moving up the table and put more distance between the teams around them. A tough game ahead against Old Rutlishians who sit 3rd with 2 wins from 2, the Stormers look forward to getting back onto the pitch!
Squad: Ben, Mo, Matt M, Matt R, Tommy, Tom G, David F, Eddie, Jesse, Henrique, CT, Alex, Paul, Richie (unused)
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