Sunday 19 February 2012

 

The afternoon's game against Manchester Club Football had been targeted as one to win by manager Matt Hall, and the second team just about overcame their second half jitters to win 4-3.

 

Ash Jones opened the scoring early on, latching on to Jeremy Baker's cross with a fine finish. After MCF equalised it was Baker the provider again. This time Jordan Langford got on the end of a cross and his deflected shot ensured Village went into the break 2-1 up.

 

Second half performances have been a problem for the team in recent weeks and it looked like the curse would continue for another week when MCF equalised for 2-2. Even Langford's second goal - calmly finishing following Steve Clayton's header - could only put VMFC back in front for a matter of minutes before the opposition drew level at 3-3. It could have been even worse had James Toland not made a stunning save to tip a long-range shot around the post.

 

However, Jordan's hat trick was completed with ten minutes to go, taking advantage of an unselfish pass from Clayton, and this time it was enough for Village to hold on and win the game 4-3.

 

The second team had two debuts, with Scott Hibbert and James Hardern appearing for the first time, helping to underline the strength in depth that the squad now enjoys.

 

The second team jump up a couple of places to move into mid-table.