17th October 2004 - Home 10.45am KO vs. Caister Roma

Result - Won 6-0

Mutford produced their best performance of the season to overcome a spirited and hard working Caister side. Boosted by the return of 'bad boys' Phil and Jordan, Mutford had a change in selection following successive defeats, and this seemed to spur the boys onto an excellent performance.

The match conditions were perfect for fast flowing football and both sides started well. Mutford appeared to be creating slightly the more dangerous chances but it took an element of good fortune to break the deadlock. A clearance from Caister fell to the hugely impressive Harrison, playing his first outfield game for sometime, who launched an almighty right foot shot from all of 30 yards, which dipped over the keeper into the top corner. This settled the home side who then produced their best football, with quick incisive passing. The lead was doubled when Mickey turned sharply to curl a left footed effort into the top corner.

Half time 2-0.

The second half saw Mutford score four more goals and, for the first time in a while sustain a reasonable level to their game for the full 60 minutes. After chances at both ends Mutford were awarded a penalty for hand ball following an unlucky bounce. The resulting kick was well dispatched by Clabby.

Within seconds Mutford scored a fourth, after some good build up play released Smiffy to score with a well placed shot close to the keeper's feet. Mickey then added his second and Mutford's fifth after a good ball released him and he finished with the outside of his right foot. Harrison then finished off the scoring. Having left the field after an accidental collision and receiving treatment for a face injury, bravely, Harrison returned in an unfamiliar forward role. Following a Mutford attack the ball appeared to be obscured momentarily by Harrison's swollen face, which confused players and supporters alike and allowed Harrison to pounce for his second of the game.

Final score 6-0. Mutford manager Paul Rose was delighted, "This was an excellent performance throughout the Team. The back four of Harrison, Jervey, Phil and Brad, assisted by Jordan W and Smiffy were very good. Phil was particularly impressive in his first game there. The midfield, Johnny, Clabby and Jason worked hard. I was pleased with the holding role, we are often missing from that position. The front three were superb, Mickey is turning into a complete striker. Jordan is always a cheeky chappie and Josh's pace and skill worries defences".

Although the winning margin was great it was not all one way traffic. During the first half Caister forced a succession of corners from which Mutford defended desperately. The manager picked out Phil, Harrison and Mickey for further praise, "Phil and Harrison added a little something at the back that we have been missing. Mickey has now scored 7 in 4 League games. We have never returned those sort of striking stats before. At one point I heard someone on the line call for Mickey to be more selfish and he could be, but he is such a genuine lad, if he thinks someone is in a better position he will always pass".

Man of the Match : Phil.

Posted 17^th October 2004