The last time we played keyworth away I missed the game because I was in Italy, by pure co-incidence I flew back from Italy just in time to catch this game. For anyone wondering, I am not Fabio Capello! It was bitter cold today and the Cotgrave lads started off as though they were frozen, as Keyworth went into a 1-0 lead after 70-seconds. Keyworth played some really nice football in the early stages and Cotgrave just seemed to let them get on with it. This was very similar to the start we had in our last match against Interski. Keyworth looked much more composed on the ball, but thankfully they were not turning their possession into clear cut chances. Ryan Smith managed to pull Cotgrave back on level terms against the run of play. Towards the end of the half Cotgrave looked much better and was starting to get into the game. Ryan had a great strike well saved by the Keyworth keeper, who knocked the ball onto the crossbar, but the ball then fell to a Keyworth player, who managed to clear the danger.

Half time: Keyworth 1 Cotgrave 1

The second half saw Cotgrave much more involved in the game and kicking down the slope. Obviously the anti-freeze in the half time drinks was starting to work. Ryan got his second goal of the game to put Cotgrave 2-1 in front following good work by Greg & Glen. Ryan and Glen had chances to extend the lead, but as always it was going to be another close encounter. During the last 10-minutes Keyworth had their best spell of the half and came very close to scoring when they hit the post and Ben Dunning was covering very well to boot the ball clear. Keyworth also had another great chance and Olly Vickers had to pull off the save of the match to keep the ball out.

Full time: Keyworth 1 Cotgrave 2

Summary - Another hard fought win, but we started so badly that it was great to get to half time on level terms. Olly had another excellent game in goal. Matt & Morley was solid in central defence and protected well by Clarkie. Jimmie & Ben both look excellent as wing backs and both can turn defence quickly into attack. Glen & Jake worked hard for the team as Keyworth kept trying to attack down the wings, particularly the left. Greg & Ryan constantly put the Keyworth defence under pressure when they could. Jakob (If you read this Jakob, send me your surname in using the feedback below) had a great outfield debut and had some very neat touches for a keeper!! Laighton played well, even when asked to do the most difficult job, being the lone striker. Craig, Colin & Joe all battled well in the midfield. Luke gave one of his most confident displays of the season. Well done also to John who managed to give everyone a run out and still got the right result.

Hope I mentioned you all, have a great Christmas!!