SKENFRITH were at home to Riverside on Saturday in the second round of the Frank Peterson Cup against Bulmers. After last week's cancellation, the fifth of the season, Skenfrith were very pleased that the game was on thanks to the condition of the Riverside pitch.
Skenfrith yet again fielded a strong team and a full subs' bench.
They started the game immediately with a good move that started at the back with Macdonald who squared the ball to Oxford whose one-two game with Warman produced an instant attack and Bulmers knew they were in for a game.
Although Sknfrith dominated the game they continued to waste position, until the 20th minute when Hughes' strong challenge resulted in the ball falling to Diamond whose cross into the box was met by Bontej who rose high above the defence to head home.
Chance after chance fell to Warman, Byron and Diamond but still Skenfrith could not increase their lead. With Bontej and Diamond up front and Warman, Nash, Byron and Hughes in midfield Skenfrith had a very attack-minded team At the back they looked strong, with Macdonald, Brown, Pound, and the in form Oxford. Jenkins in goal made a very good save and again looked unbeatable.
The first half was really about bad finishing and some good defending from both sides.
The seoind half saw Skenfrith start the sameway with total domination and especially in midfield with Nash and Hughes' strong tackling and the outstanding Byron whose passing and aerial skills dominated the middle of the pak and well deserved his man of the match award.
Skenfrith were still not taking their chances with Warman and Hughes both just firing wide of the goal. Skenfrith were now playing with flair and imagination. Hughes made a strong tackle on the right and then cut inside to unleash an unstoppable shot into the far corner.
Skenfrith made another subtitution: Price came on for Brown and immediatly got involved in a game. Five minutes from the end a Skenfrith player wasbrought down inside the area for a penalty whic h Byron put away at the second attempt.
Managers Brown and Jenkins were very pleased with the outstanding performance of the team who seem to get better game by game. They believe it is the strongest team the club has ever produced and are hopeful of success this season.
Skenrith are at home next week to Leintwardine in the League. Kick-off is at 2.30pm at the Riverside. All support is welcome.