​STOURBRIDGE AT THE DOUBLE!! (Match Report)

​One of the longer journeys in the Southern League central, we have been there before in the FA cup 1st round proper. Always an enjoyable experience, the fans and Stourbridge officials are there for the right reasons.
The game itself saw a shuffled back line with Longe-King, Smith and Bradshaw not available. The line up of Makoma, Gent, Walster and back again Lucas Perry defended well and kept the Stourbridge forwards struggling for possession. Disaster struck early as a free kick wide left was not cleared or collected by Sam Donkin and with a rush of Stourbridge players, Leon Broadhurst got the ball over the line. Starting from that disadvantage the Waders took the game to the opposition. A stunning strike by Donovan Makoma brought out the best in the home keeper James Wren as he flew to push the ball over the bar. Certainly chances were created but not taken. The ball played to feet saw some remarkable play from the boys in Orange. The long high ball had Joe White struggling on his own and was dealt with by a strong Stourbridge defence. At the break 1-0 was retrievable and with the Waders normally able to up the pace in the second period, all to play for.

Very much on top, the Waders kept going at the deficit and a series of stops by the keeper and clearances from the line kept the Stourbridge nose in front. On 70 a free kick just outside the box saw danger man Luke Benbow step up. A free kick to grace any premiership side beat the diving Donkin to hit the back of the net. A body blow and one couldn't see a way back from two goals down. Change of personnel with Sean Lucien proving an inspired signing as he continues to get to know the play structure and his team mates. One for the future. The team played well with no reward but this has been the story of so many of the recent games. Kieron Forbes encouraged the players and his talent for captaining the side came in for special praise from the officials. Well done Kieron.

Next up Luton in the Beds senior cup and a first visit to Alvechurch, Saturday 16th February kick off 1500 hours.

Mom Kieron Forbes.

Updated 00:04 - 3 Dec 2019 by Annette Dorrington