Shortwood United

Our latest foray into the world of pre season 'friendlies' took us to Tytherington who were last seasons Hellenic League Champions.
The Rocks have no lights and as very dark clouds gathered round the decision to kick off at 7.15 seemed a bit shortsighted.
The ground has no walkway round the pitch and the grass was long and as the spectators walked through it gnats started to make their presence felt - for some reason they found Tricky much to their liking and showed that they have very good taste in having him for their supper...

As the rain started to fall we were left with a choice - get wet or sit in the stand (what a daft thing that is.. you sit in the stand!) with a Rocks fan who was keen on giving advice! I chose the rain...

THe first half was memorable for Timmy boy being scythed down and the obvious pen not being given as the ball went to Jamie whose shot was blocked for a corner..
Cue Hosky! "Alton, tell him, we'd rather have a penalty!"
Cue Barmy Army - "No Hosky - the way he's been taking em we're more threat from the corner!"

Sumps changed things round at half time and moved knight to king's bishop three and this stroke of acute acumen proved decisive. Well that's what he said anyway.

With only a couple of minutes gone Ralph delivered the sort of pass that forwards dream of and Timmy controlled it, posed for a few model catalogues and scored.

Singher missed a ball from Canty (no James it wasn't a dummy!) and Jamie scored with a good effort. It was pale compared to the 3rd scored by Mark Pritchett tho. Hit first time from Jamie's ball it bloody flew in - and where was your dad eh. Typical!

After that a couple of the Rocks lads succumbed to frustration and Canty was treated particularly harshly.It was noted that for all the guys bravado he avoided JC like the plague after - especially with the Army egging Canty on..

Still it was better....