Eastbourne Borough FC

Salisbury FC

Team:

1 Lee Hook
5 Ben Austin
2 Darren Baker
26 Danny Brown
11 Matt Crabb
6 Marc Pullan
4 Matt Smart
8 Paul Armstrong (C)
3 Neil Jenkins
9 Andy Atkin
15 Nathan Crabb

Substitutes:

7 Pat Harding
13 Jay Lovett for N Crabb (88)
38 Jack Jefferey for Smart (71)
18 Simon Wormull
22 Sam Gargan for Atkin (77)

Boro welcomed Salisbury with a strong wind blowing from the east. The 2 sides had both achieved excellent recent results; much was expected of the game. The Boro management team 'rotated' the striking partnership with Sam gargan dropping to the bench after his loan battle at Kettering on Saturday; Nathan Crabb gaining a starting berth - joined by the returning Andy Atkin.

With the wind on their backs, kicking towards the Mick Green Stand, Boro started brightly. On 6 minutes Ben Austin's goal-bound 18 yard effort was blocked. During the opening 45 Atkin was off target and skipper Paul Armstrong fired over the bar from 18 yards. As the half wore on it became evident to many in the crowd that the 2 sides were well matched. Both worked hard to close down the opposition when they had possession; passes were often rushed and misplaced.

The 2nd 45 was a reverse of the 1st. Salisbury utilized the strength of the wind; but only after Atkin's excellent turn and shot was deflected into the keepers hand in the opening minute. Charlie Griffin 'sprung' the offside on the hour but Darren Baker forced the visitor into firing wide. After a series of corners a free header at the far post was wasted by Salisbury. Lee Hook was forced into a fine save before sub Jack Jeffery combined with Neil jenkins, 'Jenks' denied by James Bittner; Mr Melin bizarrely awarding a goal-kick. With Sam Gargan joining JJ up-front 'The Sports' finished well; Jeffery shooting wide in the last minute.

'Very pleased with a good point and a third clean sheet' commented Garry Wilson after the game. 'Credit must be given to a side (Salisbury) at the top of the form table' added Nick Greenwood. 'Lets reflect on the success over the season so far' was the message to the players (and fans) who appeared flat after the result. And in many ways maybe that point was lost on many with the expectation after 2 1-0 wins. With clubs struggling financially or on the field (or both!) the season for 'The Sports' has seen some excellent and unexpected results and performances. It's not over yet, and it is hoped that fans will continue to come and support the club as the season draws to a close.

Words - Lee Peskett