Tenbury hang on to secure point
3:07pm Wednesday 13th August 2008
AFTER experiencing fluctuating fortunes during their opening game in the Sport Italia West Midlands Regional League Division 2 at Mahal, Tenbury spent the final 15 minutes hanging on to claim a point in a thrilling eight-goal encounter.
With the breeze at their backs, Mahal had the better of the first half, but relied on shooting from long-range. United, on the other hand, were playing neat football and took the lead after about 15 minutes through Ryan Morris.
The home side hit back and went into a 3-1 lead, with the assistance of some shaky defending by the visitors. Tenbury pulled a goal back before the break, Mike Foster heading home a Grant Harris corner, to leave the half time score at 3-2.
After being under pressure for much of the first half, the home side also hit the crossbar three times, Tenbury responded well to their manager's half time pep talk and dominated the next 30 minutes.
Tenbury were soon back on level terms, and once again it was Harris who laid on the chance for Foster to tuck away. United were well in control at this stage and it came as no surprise when they took the lead.
Foster made the goal for George Pearson who was making a welcome return to the club. Pearson saw his first effort blocked by the keeper, but was quickly on to the loose ball to bang in the rebound.
The home side struck back and equalised with 15 minutes to go. Manager Colin Powell came off the bench and, along with a resolute defence, stood firm.