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Tractor FC [6] v's Jessel Athletic [5], 6th December, 2004.
Tractor Boys mow down the Jessel, report by the Gaffers


Out of the darkness the mighty Jessel gathered on the Battersea park pitch like moths to the light and at 8pm it seemed the opposition had taken stock, predicted their inevitable fate and scarpered back north of the river claiming an honourable draw ..... no such luck. Despite being on a smaller pitch than they were used to Jessel kicked off and seemed to have the better of the early exchanges. However it was Mr Norman-Butler's side who struck 1st with a tidy ball through the middle and an appropriately finish to the delivery by TFC's 2004 sharp shooter of the year, Tom Wilkins. This was clearly the area TFC were getting the bulk of their joy and Jessel knew they were in for a tough night as a near replica of the 1st left, scored by Wilko again, left it TFC 2 Jessel 0.

As the game moved into the second half the TFC seemed to be taking control of the game until Shillington nicked 1 and the ever-present Lindsay smashed a volley into the bottom right practically from the kick-off. What a strike. Wilko notched up his third with a sweet lay off to Sparrow on the right, run into space, chest down, shot and clench fist salute that spoke volumes of the young man's desire to win the match single handed. As the game moved into the final third it was clear more goals were in the offing as Campbell and Melville of Jessel FC pushed forward and Innes and Lindsay shuffled ahead accordingly in the pursuit of progress. It was exactly on one of these forward advances that Melville received a half cleared ball from the TFC and hurtled the ball alarmingly near to the goal; only a subtle flick off Innes' inner thigh made sure but I think the former will claim it.

Jessel provide a Christmas cracker at Plough Lane

This slender lead was wiped out then surpassed quickly as the TFC scored 2 softish goals coutesy of staunch defending by Robbo who was having a great game. Leading the charge the young upstart, Ed "Saddam" Suckling, flicked one goal in and then charged down the keeper to see the ball ricochet into the net. 5-3 to TFC. The final Jessel flourish saw Lindsay equalise with yet another strong strike after Shillington had scored from the penalty spot. Only Saddam, a former player of the year, was then able to break the deadlock after releasing a WMD from the edge of the box into the bottom right.

Adam's mullet head bands are a hit this Christmas
in the club shop.

A good game that really got going second half and any result would have been fair. Most importantly it was close, well fought and good fun. Phil asked if we'd like a rematch and I of course said yes. Well done all.

Jessel Player Perfs

Uncle Duncs - Not one of his better games but as ever a solid presence. However great joy is still derived from witnessing those darting advances into the opposition area. Something great is afoot (6)
Smellville - Again not one of his better games and the shorter game slightly reduces his strongest area of speed both in beating and defending against players. Great goal though (6)
Spezza - Seemed a bit quiet all night but did effective as ever when on the ball (6)
Lindsay - Again not at his best but significantly better 2nd half and 2 excellent goals (7)
Innit - After nearly breaking his foot in the 1st minute I though he might be quiet during the game, however this shorter format suits his close ball skills and one-touch skill. (7.5)
Nicholson - Player very solidly in the holding position infront of the back 2 and only slight blemish was his keeping. (6.5)
Shillington - What tea do footballers drink ? Penaltea ! (Sorry) (6.5)

For TFC:Gaffer, Suck (3), Sparra, Robbo, Adam, Rob, Wilko (3)
For Jessel:Lindsay (2), Melville (1), Shillington (2), Duncs, Spezza, Innit, Nicholson