After a relatively easy one hour drive The Relics over 60’s arrived at a sunny but cold and breezy Neston Nomads for the first round tie in the Pharmacy2U WFA National Cup.
The Relics started brightly with some good pass and move possession unfortunately the move fizzled out with the ball running through to the Neston keeper. Poor control from the keepers throw out saw the ball going out for a corner. Some great movement from Stewart saw him free on the edge of the Neston box. Stewarts movement was well spotted by Graham taking the corner and his pinpoint pass was put away with power and precision by Stewart leaving the Neston keeper rooted to the spot. Only a couple of minutes had gone and the Relics were 1 – 0 up
The Relics continued in the pass, move, possession mode and a few minutes later were rewarded with a slice of good fortune when Wayne’s shot was deflected into the Neston nett to put the Relics 2 – 0 up.
The Relics dominate the first half but couldn’t add to the score line, Half time Neston 0 Relics 2
Neston were a different team at the start of the second half, they marked a lot tighter and pressed the ball quicker. A quick attack from the Neston defence saw Gaz pull off a great save diving to his left to parry the ball out, as it rolled to the edge of the area it was knocked back to Gaz, but wait the ref has controversially decided the the Relics defender was in the area, penalty to Neston.
The new penalty kick rule of multiple steps from one yard was soon to be tested, and the Neston striker gave Gaz no chance. Neston 1 Relics 2.
The Relics were rattled by the penalty and were playing a bit nervously now, not as smooth and slick as the first half. Eventually they settle down and started to control the game. Stewart hit the bar with a thunderous shot, Wayne had an effort that went wide, before Stewart had another shot saved. With a minute to go Graham found Stewart free on the edge of the box but his shot was too high.
Final score Neston 1 – Relics 2
Congratulations and well played to all the Relics today, Gaz, Wayne, Keith S, Terry, Pete Shev, Stewart and Graham W (Player/Manager).
Also thanks to Dr John for the great videos and the car parks brews after the game.
Bury Relics 