Transition Week was always going to be difficult

With existing squad players following the previous management team, and mid-season recruitment always difficult, the result was a threadbare squad. The problem was only exacerbated when Aaron Hewitt’s hamstring went during the warm up leaving only a bare eleven. Whilst today’s effort couldn’t be questioned the fluidity so noticeable on Tuesday night was missing.
Blackstones took the game to Rainworth from the start and they had their first effort in the eleventh minute when Bogdan Masnita’s effort from the edge of the area was always rising. Minutes later Louie Venni put his effort well over from a corner.
Rainworth’s first attempt came in the 17th minute when George Scott’s effort from the edge of the area took a deflection and flashed inches wide of the upright.
Blackstones continued to search for the opener and Ryan Lennon failed to capitalise on a ricochet that fell at his feet as he lifted the opportunity over the bar. Minutes later a Jack Cratchley fumble gifted Haydn Armigar with the easiest of opportunities for the equaliser.
Rainworth responded positively and Toby Francis ‘s effort from the edge of the area went agonisingly close, just clearing the crossbar with the keeper well beaten. Blackstone’s second came two minutes later when Venni’s cross was put in by Haydn Armigar.
Rainworth had an excellent chance to reduce the arrears in the 36th minute courtesy of an excellent run and cross from Callum Brooks. Nathan Benger’s effort was blocked by Bartose Berezowski and the rebound was taken off Rio Allan’s toes has he took aim.
Just before half time Blackstones scored their third when Cratchley did well to prevent the initial attempt but after the ball was recycled Andy Irvine made no mistake from close range.
Blackstones dominated the opening minutes of the second half, but Masnita was unable to increase their lead from two opportunities. They almost got their fourth after yet another fumble, but James Culf was on hand to block the effort on the line.
Rainworth did eventually pull a goal back in the 67th minute when an excellent passage of play instigated by Brooks eventually found Allen who cut into the area hitting a powerful shot that gave Berezowski no chance into the top corner.
Three minutes later Rainworth had a further opportunity to reduce the arrears further but Francis ‘s shot was straight at the keeper.
Cratchley did well to block Lennon’s effort, whilst at the other end Benger almost scored when Berezowski fumbled his shot at the expense of a corner. Shortly afterwards Allan almost did when well placed but slipped at the vital time and the chance was gone.
With minutes remaining Blackstones scored their fourth when Haydn Armigar hit his shot past Cratchley for his hat-trick and with it a 4-1 victory.
Rainworth must hope their recruitment drive reaps rewards in time for next Saturday’s home encounter against Harrowby United and this week’s absentees are available.
RAINWORTH MWFC: Cratchley; Herbert; Culf; Kelly; Scott; Simpson; Hardman; Francis: Benger; Allan; Brooks