Wednesday 25th April 2007

• Opponent: Chittlehampton
• Fixture type: League
• Venue: Away
• Result: Lost 2-1
• Scorers: Gary Montague

Match Report

The punishing end of season fixture pile up continues to cause problems for Buckland as player injuries and work schedules mean the trip to Chittle’ takes place with only 12 fit members. The match begins in up beat fashion as Gary Montague heads Buckland ahead after 15 minutes. The remainder of the half is evenly contested with the home side having the better opportunities in front of goal, but not finding the net. An injury to Phil Short 10 minutes before the break meant Leon Appleton entering the action but left the visitors with no additional substitutes.

Within 3 minutes of the second period starting Chittlehampton were level. A long clearance from the back found their centre forward who raced behind the Buckland defence and lobbed the on rushing keeper from just outside the penalty area. Buckland withstood a 10 minute spell of Chittle’ pressure, after which the game became rather niggly as the referee felt the need to caution a total of seven players, split between the teams as tempers flared. Midway through the half a fine run and cross from the wing found Simon Adams 6yds from goal. Unfortunately his shot was mis-hit and a defender made a goal-line clearance. Moments later a Buckland striker avoided the offside trap, but his final shot was well saved by the keeper. The game seemed to be heading for a draw, but with less than 10 minutes to play, Chittle’ were awarded a penalty kick for a high foot. Although how the referee could give this decision when both players who challenged for the ball had their feet high, astonished everyone including the bemused Chittle’ striker involved in the incident. The resulting spot kick was tucked into the corner of the net to give the home side victory.

Man of the Match: Matt Cann (midfield)