Slazenger 5’s faced a tough encounter against a physical and quick Worksop team.
Despite this it was Slazengers that started the brighter with neat passing interplay and people making themselves available for passes. Harry Gunning and Tom Pitchforth worked well linking up with veteran Geoff Birkett in midfield and wingers Chris Gascoigne and Elliott Golding were always available on the wings.
It was no surprise when striker Peter Gunning put the home side in front half way through the first half after a typically slick move.
But it was very disappointing when the away team managed to equalise soon after. This was the result of poor marking and the away team having good pace in the centre of the park.
Slazengers persevered and were soon creating other scoring chances which unfortunately were not converted.
It was slightly unfortunate that the away team scored again before the half time whistle and a little against the run of play. Half time score 2-1 to the opposition.
Second half Slazengers had to dig deep as the physically stronger and older Worksop players began to test the home team. But for some stout defending from Danny Croxall and Neil Stacey the home team would have been in trouble.
It was Slazengers turn to score against the run of play when the home team swiftly counter attacked for Peter Gunning to net his second of the game. But the problem still remained that Slazengers were a tiring side and despite Harry Buttery successfully defending a penalty flick he couldn’t stop Worksop scoring 2 quick goals.
To their credit Slazengers dug deep and with 10 minutes remaining they rallied and began to pressure the away team. Elliott Golding scored with 5 minutes remaining and it was Worksop’s turn to dig deep as Slazengers mounted wave after wave of attacks.
It was slightly unfortunate that right at the death Slazengers just failed to grab an equaliser when the ball flashed across the goalmouth for 3 Slazenger players to miss the goal scoring opportunity.
Final score 4-3 to Worksop.
