GREATYARMOUTHFC.CO.UK

Wednesday 29th April 2009

SAFFRON WALDEN TOWN 0, BLOATERS 1

A terrific defensive performance, topped off by a man-of-the-match performance from goalkeeper Hilton, plus a superb finish from Woodcock, enabled Yarmouth to return from Essex with a rare three points at Catons Lane.

Without the three regular Youth team youngsters to call on (they had games on Monday and Thursday), Paul Tong brought in Bryanton and Vide while Roach returned for a final game this season – he is unavailable for Saturday’s game with Halstead.

Saffron Walden dominated possession throughout this game but were unable to beat the Yarmouth defence in which Hilton was outstanding – even the home supporters jealously recognised his ability.

Yarmouth had two shots on target in the first half: in the 20^th minute, Squire sent a free kick straight at home ‘keeper Pledger, but the second in the 35th minute, brought the game’s only goal, and what a corker it was! Bryanton sent the ball out to Woodcock on the right and, looking up, he saw Pledger way off his line; taking a chance, Woodcock sent in a wonderfully flighted attempt that dipped perfectly under the bar with the goalkeeper stranded in no mans land and a defender chasing back in vain.

Captain Ager also performed heroics, including a goal-saving clearance off the line from Vallis soon after the second half restart. Yarmouth brought on Lawrence for Roach, then Vide for Bartley and these two pepped the Yarmouth attack and though they could not get a shot on target they did go close with several worthy efforts.

Watt produced a second goal-line clearance as Walden piled on the pressure but the home forwards were very wayward in their shooting and either wasted every chance that they created or found the Bloaters defence in top form.

In the closing minutes, Yarmouth were able to attempt adding to their score but Gorbould, Lawrence, Woodcock and Vide all shot wide.

Team – Hilton, Watt, Savage, Gorbould, Ager (c), Darby, Woodcock (Thompson 90), Squire, Roach (Lawrence 46), Bartley (Vide 68), Bryanton.

Referee – M Gadd

Attendance - 128