The 6^th February saw Unsworth restart they league campaign against Marauders at Parrenthorn. Earlier in the season Unsworth demolished the team from Prestwich 14-0 but without a game since the 12^th December how would the lads cope?

With new signing Liam hoping to make his debut John had a full 16 to choose from. Everyone looked smart in their new tops and a word of thanks to David Lomas of Lomas newsagents on Parr Lane for supporting the team.

It was always going to be difficult to please everyone as we can only play 11 at anyone time but the lads who started on the bench took it well and all knew that they would get a game. A similar back 4 of Luke, Rob, Oliver and Kain started. John decided to start 4-3-3 so Jake took the centre role in midfield with Mason and Tom supporting either side. Up front saw Dec on the left, Joe on the right and Charlie in the middle.

The game kicked off and from the start it looked like a few of the team were rusty. Holding positions proved difficult for both teams and it really looked like everyone was chasing the ball desperate for a touch. Unsworth always looked the stronger of the two teams, but with people drifting out of position Marauders had a number of opportunities to break from their own half. These breaks didn’t really provide Marauders with any real chances but Eathan had to be on his toes and had to make a number of well timed runs to the edge of his box to collect the ball and quell any dangers.

From the side it was clear that the long break had disrupted a few players and rather than concentrating on the basics time and again the defensive back line looked more of a zigzag and further up the pitch everything was being played through the middle. As Marauders had packed the midfield as well it was too congested and this did not lend itself to flowing football that we know we are capable to play.

That said Unsworth were quickly into the lead and by half time we were 4-0 up. Joe and Charlie were quickly on the score sheet. The game was won by half time but John and Danny were concerned that when we come up against stronger opposition in weeks to come we need to make sure we play to our strengths. At half time the message was clear, get the ball out to the wings and make sure when possible play the simple game of pass and move.

From the start of the second half it showed the lads had listened. Mason quickly go the ball out to Tom and rather than taking 4 or 5 touches he knocked the ball past the defender and off he skipped down the wing. The move did not lead to a goal but it showed that the simple game does work.

Marauders were being ripped to bits and a further 4 goals with Jake and Elliott adding to those scored in the first half. Rob added a well timed header as well. Liam’s debut did not end well and he had to come off with a knock to the ankle but hopefully he will be ok for next week.

Marauders got a consolation goal due to an error at the back and Eathan was forced to pull off a stunning save as well, but overall it was a really great performance for the lads. Final score was 8-1 to Unsworth and if I have not mentioned you as a goal scorer then I apologise but too many to remember as I am getting to old.

Its always difficult with 16 to please and the team at time did lose a bit of shape but everyone seemed satisfied with getting some playing time under their belts. Next week sees Unsworth take on Summerseat at Hillock in a rearranged league game (subject to not having a Cup game) . Kick off should be 10.00am but I will let you all know.