After a ten week lay off due to adverse weather, Unsworth travelled to Close Park, Radcliffe and came away with the 3 points with a 3-1 victory over Close Park FC.

Colin was worried about what state some of his players would turn up in after celebrating Mike Mellouish's 21st birthday - thanks to Geoff and Sharon for a great night.

After a hat full of chances in the first 10 minutes with Brad and Matty squandering one and one chances with the keeper, the deadlock was finally broken after 20 minutes when Danny swung in a corner which looped into the far corner of the goal.  Brad said he had the final touch, but the referee Mr. Booth said the ball had already crossed the line.  Sorry Brad, but the FA Dubious Goal Panel have given the goal to Danny.

With Ads playing with a broken jaw and Jamie playing with a hair-line fracture to the elbow, both Ads and Jamie had chances, only to be denied by the keeper.  Craig put Olli through on the edge of the box only for his fierce drive to be tipped round the post.  Danny struck a fierce free kick, only to see his shot tipped over the bar.

Then finally the second goal came after half an hour when Matty's first shot was rebounded off the defender but he latched onto the loose ball to strike home his first goal for the club.

Half time 2-0

In the second half, Barton made two fantastic saves to keep Close Park at bay - nice to see you back on form and still smiling Barton.

Ten minutes into the second half Colin replaced Craig and Brad with Andy Jones and Paul (The Veteran/Mouth) Morrison.  This paid dividends when "Captain Marvel" Tristram and Keiran released Olli down the right to beat two men, and he released Jamie who cheekily megged the fullback to put Morrison in. Morrison  made a great run and smashed the ball home into the top corner.  Unfortunately Sky Sports were not on hand to see the goal - but no doubt the memories will live on, and believe me lads we will NEVER hear the end of it!!!

Lewis Saunders replaced Olli who run out of steam.  Andy put the ball on a plate for Mike M only to see him hit the bar from 2 yards out.  It say's it all when Sam Jones (aged 9) who plays for Unsworth said to Mike's dad Geoff "How did he miss that".  Too much partying last night eh Mike.  Andy then came close only to see his shot shave the bottom of the post. 

To their credit, Close Park FC never gave up and scored a consolation goal through Unsworth's sloppy defending.

Martin Colgan cannot believe The Veteran/Mouth is only 39.  We'll have to celebrate the BIG 40 very soon.

Next game - Unsworth v AFC United 9.45am at Hillock.  No late comers - Lewis Saunder's who turned up 20 minutes late this morning after losing his keys last night!!!  BIG GAME!!!