This was Kewford’s finest hour. After losing 6:0 to a powerful Northfield Town 2 weeks ago, we went into this game as big underdogs. However, this defeat inspired Kewford to raise their game and it was clear that on a big pitch, Kewford were more than a match for the league leaders. It could have been different had Northfield scored in the first 5 minutes, when their striker put a good chance wide. However, as Kewford got a foothold in the game, it was always likely to be a set play that led to the first goal and it came from a training ground move as a long throw from Jakob caused mayhem, and Tyrese managed to deflect a shot that looped over the keeper. 1:0. The crowd now believed and the atmosphere was brilliant. Dallas then went on a strong run that led to further panic, before Chad struck a 30 yard free kick into the roof of the net to make it a dream start. 2:0. At the other end, the defence was now looking solid but Liam had to be on his toes to tip one shot over the bar.
Second half saw Kewford move to a back 5 and then to hit Northfield on the break, with Phippy a constant menace with his pace. However, Kewford were being outnumbered in midfield so we returned to a conventional back 4. Phippy ran through and almost made it 3 but brought out a great save from the Northfield keeper. With 10 minutes to go, Northfield finally got back in the game when another long ball into the box was cleared and the shot looped over Liam. 2:1. This was now about bravery, and the Kewford defence headed everything away and put their bodies on the line, with Ben Ellis a colossus at the back. Kewford looked the more likely to pinch a third on the break and Nik struck a beautiful volley that flew past the post. Tyrese epitomised the spirit when sprinting in the last 5 minutes and throwing himself into a tackle to stop the ball being launched again. Kewford made a number of substitutions in the last few minutes to slow down the game and Chad and Ryan held the ball in the corner to ensure Northfield couldn’t get out of their own half. When the final whistle went, the boys knew that they had deserved it.
Full marks to Northfield who showed why they are such a top side and they accepted the defeat in good style by shaking hands at the end. A great advert for high quality grassroots football .. Finally, thanks to CWYFL and Redditch United FC for putting on such a great venue for the boys.
Now we need to kick on again as there is still much to play for.