Heavy rain late in the afternoon caused todays football plans to change. With many matches being postponed, another visit to Tithe Farm was my only option. Having ventured here last week for an encounter between the RAF and the army. Tonight’s match was a Middlesex Senior Cup tie between Broadfields and Uxbridge, as both teams looked to progress in wet conditions.
This evening’s game started with an Uxbridge chance. Comfortably caught by the keeper. The host went on to counter, with a ball out wide. But the Visitors’ defender blocked an intended cross in wet conditions. Another chance for the guest controlled the following period. Just unable to find the net, after repeatedly applying pressure to their opponents. Eventually going wide of the post handing, the home side a goal kick. Broadfields regained the ball to send their forward through. Quickly being caught up by the travelling shot stopper. An inviting over the to pass gave Uxbridge another go at goal, but the proceeding cross flew over the box without any contact. Leaving the scores even. Two free kicks ended action this half. Broadfields coming the closer, after a low shot forced the keeper into a save.
At the break nothing separated the sides. Resuming play was a chance for Broadfields. One two between two attacking players set up a shot from outside the box, going over the bar. Leading to a vocal reaction from the host who believe they should have had a corner. Trying to find an opening goal, Uxbridge used their wide players well. However, they were stopped by the fullback time after time. Until a bit of fortune handed them a goal. Shot looped to the side of the Broadfields keeper, after a deflection sent him the wrong way. Giving the visitors a lead. Looking to level the match. A throw in was sent goal bounds by the home side. Poor shooting allowed an easy save for the keeper after a big bounce. Cross from Uxbridge would have doubled the lead, If not for a sliding challenge on the edge of the six-yard box. To keep them out last ditch coming to the rescue. Carrying on their positive play, short passing gave them a chance in the box. Which was fired into the defender who lumped a long pass up the field. Finally having another attempt, Broadfields curled a shot into the keepers’ hands. Before a defensive error proved to be the visitor’s next chance. Finding a way, a low cross was put across the box. The player falling to tap home from close range as an empty goal stared him down. Broadfields best chance since play restarted proved to be an adventurous effort hitting against the crossbar. After the referee blew for a free kick. Looping headers set up a chance for the host. Forcing the keeper to a brilliant save, giving away a corner. Switching the play helped Uxbridge made one of their final significant chances. Winning a corner in the process. Firing over the bar following a short set piece. A fight broke out on the pitch halting play. Caused by a vicious challenge, leaving the officials with important decisions to be made. Only managing to squeeze out two yellows cards for violent conduct. Uxbridge staff being warned by the lines man that their foul language will not be tolerated. Stretching out the host keeper, the visitors had a shot. Cutting inside after carrying the ball from their own half.
In conclusion last minute decisions saw me watch a fiery affair. Local rivalries visible on and off the pitch. Leading to tension around the ground, with a few heated words being spoken from spectators close to the pitch.
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