Written by Andrew Madaras
Photos by DKN DESIGN
Six points in just three days lifted the Blues into 6th place in the Premier Division of the Spartan South Midland League. You have to go all the way back to early October to find when consecutive League victories were last the order of the day. But make no mistake, both victories were well deserved and the clean sheets that accompanied were equally valued. In the last 450 minutes of competitive football, the defence has only conceded two goals, one of which was a penalty.
While the back door is shut it only needs one moment of magic in front of goal to get the all-important win. That moment of magic came on Tuesday in the 12th minute courtesy of the outstretched foot of Danny Webb who majestically guided Kyle Davison-Gordon’s inch perfect pass from out on the left past Liam Nugent in the home goal. Tolu Ikuyinminu had started the move off with a dogged piece of play. The Blues had another goal chalked off in the second half and on another day may have won by a bigger margin.
But, there was no hiding First Team Coach, Joe Deeney’s delight at his Team’s performance in both games. Speaking to The Talk of The Town podcast he played tribute to all his players but especially to Man of The Match, Luke Dunstan. There were very few dissenting voices when supporters were asked to choose their Man of the Match.
Joe added that the addition of John Smith & Robbie Goodman had been important factors in the return to form with a marked reduction in the error count demonstrated by the wins.
A nasty gash under the right eye of the Hoddesdon keeper, Liam Nugent caused a long delay while he received first aid, but still needed to be taken to hospital. All at the Club wish Liam well and a speedy recovery.
Saturday’s victory over Ardley was the proverbial game of two halves. Ardley hit the woodwork twice in the first half, both from dead balls. Connor Coulson pushing the ball onto the post in one of the attempts.
However, a revitalized Blues came out for the second half a team transformed and on the front foot. Sean Immanuel slotted home neatly through a crowded box in the 62nd minute before Ruari Mills broke his Town duck and got his first goal for the Club with a deceptive free kick which nestled neatly in the far corner.
Dunstable had found their mojo this half and played some free flowing, attractive football and were well worth the three points despite the sluggish start.
The next 6 weeks sees the Blues play matches on Saturdays & Tuesdays. There’s 36 points to be played for in that time. Joe has assembled a squad which will be firmly tested on every occasion. Pitches at this time of year are always going to be tricky, but as Joe says they’re a great leveller. His squad are primed for action and know their purpose, to win matches, ugly if necessary.
The Team travel to Arlesey on Saturday 4th February before taking on Cockfosters at Creasey Park on Tuesday 7th February, kick off 7.45 pm, and then entertain Hoddesdon Town at Creasey Park on Saturday 11th February, kick off 3 pm.
Comments