Reserves Manager Steve Kent left Timsbury happy with this performance but frustrated that his team were unable to break down a home side that seemed to be far stronger than their league position suggests.
Playing up the slope in the first half Cheddar had to absorb some heavy pressure from the home side who forced a series of corners and created a couple of clear cut scoring chances, but without troubling McManus in the Cheddar goal. Cheddar’s play was always neat and the passing and movement of the midfield and attackers was as good as anything seen this season. Several decent openings were created but unfortunately they were not converted and as a result both teams were happy to go in at half time on level terms.
Playing down the slope in the second half Cheddar expected to go on and win the match. Inspite of having more of the attacking play Cheddar did not create any clear cut openings and although Honeywell should have done better with one opportunity, the home keeper was not given a busy afternoon.
The home side looked dangerous on the break and Mathews’ display in the Cheddar defence was the outstanding performance of the game. Indeed the best save of the second half came from Cheddar’s McManus who did well to keep out a low drive from the home attack. Youngster John Tee-Boon came on as second half substitute in defence and gave a solid display.
In attack Cheddar pressed for the winner and 10 minutes from time thought it had arrived. A corner from the right was headed goalward by Jones and appeared to be handled on the line by a defender before the keeper caught it at the second attempt, well over the line. Despite Cheddar protests the referee waved play on and severe injustice was done. In the last few minutes Edwards was brought down in the penalty box but again Cheddar appeals were in vain.
On the final whistle the home side were clearly delighted with their point and this in itself is a credit to Cheddar as is the fact that the home side made a number of changes including players with considerable senior league experience.