A game we were targeting to pick up some points from the first half of the season didn't go as planned. Old Wulfs welcomed a Stafford team with a bare 11, and started the better of the two teams. In the surprisingly mild morning we moved well, passed well and put some good balls and runs into the D, but without reward.
Having dominated the first 10 minutes, Old Wulfs loosened their grip on the game and allowed Stafford in. Occasional sloppy play put the defence under pressure, and after a couple of fine saves, one slipped past Colin to make it 1-0 to Staffs. They grew in confidence and Old Wulfs found themselves in some desperate defence. Another series of fine saves resulted in Colin landing badly on a shoulder, but ok to carry on.
The second half picked up where the first left off, with Stafford having the better of the chances. Old Wulfs conceded another, and couldn't get a breakthrough at the other end, despite some great balls from Adam and Jake, good lines from Gareth, and skillful runs from Sam and Dan.
With 15 mins left on the clock, Colin couldn't continue, and Old Wulfs moved to 11 outfield players. With hindsight, perhaps not my best decision. Stafford scored two more in short order with quick break-aways leading to a field goal and a PC unluckily deflected past the man on the line.
But we don't give up.
Playing with an energy and urgency that was lacking at times, Old Wulfs pressed hard on the last 10, creating some half chances, and being denied an opportunity by the keeper going to ground outside the D. And interesting keeperless game followed for 5 mins, and we eventually capitalised, with Archie doing great work to get into the circle and get a shot away, and Sam there to poke over from 0.5". Consolation, but only that.
Some good performances, and Archie got the vote for MOTM. Another key performance with contributions all over the pitch.
Last game before the break is away to Bridgnorth. It's going to be important to start getting some points and avoid a relegation dogfight.
We will do our best to get back to you as soon as possible.
