2pm 7 September 2024
Staffordshire County Senior League, Division Two North
Staffordshire Victoria 4 Eastwood Hanley reserves 2 (att 30)
I picked this game primarily as the location and kick off time allowed me to get back home in time to watch England on TV at 5pm, but it still proved a good choice.
Eastwood Hanley's reserves had won their opening three league fixtures, and I'd expected them to continue their perfect start against Staffordshire Victoria. But it didn't turn out that way.
They began well enough, before the home side won a penalty with their first attack. It was saved, but the visitors' relief was short-lived as a few minutes later they conceded the opening goal.
Eastwood Hanley looked the better team, and deservedly equalised after about 25 minutes, but they remained vulnerable on the break.
The game really turned against them early in the second half. Victoria attacked from the off and went back in front, then soon scored again for 3-1. Their second penalty, this time successful, made it 4-1.
Eastwood Hanley recovered some pride, and slight hope of rescuing the game, with a goal back five minutes from time. But even with a lengthy period of stoppage time they couldn't alter the outcome.
Staffordshire Victoria are based at Holditch Miners Welfare in the Chesterton area of Newcastle-under-Lyme. There's a single enclosed pitch with a dugout on either side and a few advertising boards.
The playing area is so tightly hemmed in that spectators are only able to watch from a roped off area behind the goal adjacent to the clubhouse and car park, making viewing a slightly frustrating experience.
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