We have struggled this season to put out a full strength team and this week was no different. Ben and Craig was missing and Jimmie and Olly were playing with injuries. It was obvious after a couple of minutes that Jimmie was not going to last the first half, but he was determined to try. Ryan was in goal for the first half. Long Eaton were having the better of the game in the first half and managed to take the lead when a scuffed shot went through a cluster of legs and the Long Eaton striker was the quickest to react and he managed to bundle the ball over the line despite Ryan's best efforts to stop him. Cotgrave equalised through Morley, who smashed in a shot at the 2nd attempt following a corner. Long Eaton managed to regain the lead with a great strike which left Ryan with no chance. Olly came on to replace Jimmie, but at half time Ollie couldn't continue outfield and decided to go in goal. Today was Olly's 100th game for Cotgrave.

Ryan came out for the second half and he had an immediate impact as it was only a great save by the Long Eaton keeper that prevented an equaliser. I'm still not sure how he kept it out. Cotgrave was on top at this point and Ryan managed to get the goal he deserved. The game was then end to end as both teams had some great chances, but some great defending and keeping, by both teams kept the scores level. Then with 5 minutes to go, Greg managed to score a superb solo goal to put Cotgrave 3-2 up. Long Eaton were not going to give up and they got their equaliser just before the final whistle after a shot hit the bar and dropped kindly to their striker, who made no mistake. This meant the game ended up 3-3, which was a fair result as both teams gave everything.

Too many players played below what they have shown they are capable of today, or else we could (and should) have taken all 3pts. First half we allowed Long Eaton the time and space to dominate the midfield. If we allow Toton the same time and space next week, then we will be severely punished. Most balls cleared by our defence, and by the Long Eaton defence seemed to end up being picked up by Long Eaton players, which disappointed me today. Second half was much better though.

Feedback: name: john dale

Involvement: Cotgrave Manager

We have never had a bad game with Long Eaton. They have always been played in a great sporting manner and today was again the same. We havent had a game for a few weeks and missed training this week so I was worried if we would get off to a bad start. The problems started when Ben's dad phoned to say Ben was ill as we already had Craig missing. We had to shuffle players around with Callum dropping into central defence and Luke and Jake playing midfield and defence today. We seemed a bit scared of keeping the ball today and seemed to want to get rid of it as soon as we got it. This was a pity because when we played football we did very well. After a few words at half time and with Ryan coming out of goal and into midfield we started to play and reaped the benefits with some great goals. We need to start to want the ball and want to keep it and not treat it like a season ticket to Forest, and try to get rid of it as soon as possible. A point today was a good point for us and could prove to be a big point come the end of the season. Well done lads and again a big thankyou for all the help and support from the parents.

Feedback: name: Glen

Involvement: Cotgrave Player

Great game lads. Everyone had a great game. We should have won. Well done Clarkie, you had a great game at center half. And well done Olly on you 100th game