25th Oct 2005 - BCII vs. Debenhams

BCII 0 - 1 Debenhams

BC2 came crashing back to earth last night suffering a double blow as their first defeat of the season also allowed Athletico Shenley to sneak in and steal top spot in the league, after their own 4-1 defeat of Argos.

 With the only 100% record in Division Two to protect, Bunky’s took to the pitch against Debenhams with the same line up that had seen off MK United a fortnight earlier, Danny maintaining a starting position in favour of Mark Rogers, who was accompanied on the bench by Disco, Sean and Russ,

 Although BC2 enjoyed plenty of possession and had the time in defence to dictate the pace of the game, the movement up front was rusty and didn’t allow for the team to create chances, often relying on long range efforts which were easily handled by the Debenhams ‘keeper.

 Ben had a clear cut chance after blocking a loose pass from Debenhams midway through the half, leaving him one on one with the ‘keeper but his shot was straight down the centre and the goalie was able to parry.

 Aside from a run by Justin that saw him cut out a pass, jink inside a defender and shoot just wide of the post, the opportunities were scarce, however, although BC2 were denied a blatant penalty when the Debenhams defence encroached into the area – but the referee appeared not to be watching the game and had already turned away when the shouts went out.

 Nonetheless, Bunky’s were certainly the more comfortable team at half-time and Ritchie A. in the Bunky goal had hardly been troubled.

 The second half saw much of the same to begin with, until Debenhams broke down the right and the shot beat the advancing Ritchie to nestle in the far corner.

 Changes were made during the second half with both Rogers and Sean getting into the action and the two best moves of the game almost saw Bunky’s equalise.

 First, Daz. intercepted the ball deep and knocked it square to Rogers, whose inch perfect pass split the defence and found Danny sprinting down the right. His resulting shot was well struck but the angle was too tight and the ‘keeper saved.

 A few moments later Daz. found space to beat the full back and cut the ball back where Ben was unmarked on the edge of the area, however his shot was again kept out.

 Other chances came and went, although none clear as Debenhams defended stoutly and Bunky’s seemed to lack the imagination to create an opening, until a shot from Daz, parried by the now stranded ‘keeper, seemed to rebound slowly out to the edge of the area …. and towards the waiting Danny.

 What would he do?

 There comes a time in every man’s life when he is faced with a difficult choice. It’s right or wrong, good or evil, Heaven or Hell. An age old challenge and the path is never easy – you either rise to the occasion or are bowed forever.

  Danny’s choices were simple; should he wait, (but the tension!), until the ball can be calmly placed into the far corner – or should he ….. Oh no! too late ….. Danny’s only gone and charged towards the ball and now he’s in the area and now the balls in the net, but surely the goal won’t stand? …. well, it certainly won’t now as he’s smiling and apologising to everyone.

 So, a 1-0 defeat – but at the end of the day, It’s these split second decisions that make the difference and put everything into perspective. Football isn’t life and death, it’s just a game. And, apparently, it’s funny - and old, too.

 Clearly it’s just like Danny.