A missed penalty at Acland Park, Feniton cost Sidbury United another impressive Fresha League top flight success, writes Steve Birley.
United were 3-1 up at Feniton and well on their way to three more points against one of the Premier Division top teams when Adam Connett was felled in the area. Having already fired one spot kick past the home glovesman Connett was quick to bag the ball to repeat the process, but this time his kick flew over the target.
That proved to be a pivotal moment in a superb encounter for the home side were clearly galvanised by their ‘escape’ and hit back with two goals to leave the game ending 3-3.
The earlier spot kick and goals from the Green brothers, Danny and Dave, had put United in what seemed an unassailable position. However, late in the game a stunning goal line clearance from the head of Dan Gale ensured United got something for their considerable efforts at Acland Park.
United boss Jeremy Schofield said: “It was a cracking game of football between two well matched sides. To be honest I thought their front line was as good as you’ll get at this level, but their defence was one I always felt we could get at. To be unbeaten three games into the Premier Division season having played Tiverton Town, Willand Rovers and Feniton is testament to our squad, their ability and their collective desire to do well.
The thing that pleases me most is that we are getting plaudits from opposition managers and coaches for the way we are approaching the games. Long may that continue.”
There is one concern that Schofield has. He explained saying: “I am hoping we prove to be as successful against sides who want to make life difficult for us. Breaking down that sort of opposition may need a slightly different approach from us. However, we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.”
Tomorrow (Saturday) United entertain a University side that bagged a first away win of the season on Monday night with a 3-2 success at Willand Rovers.
Dave Green is unavailable, but Danny Green will play in an otherwise unchanged United squad.
Schofield says: “This is the sort of game by which our season will be defined. University teams are always full of energy and pace. I hope we prove up to it.”
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