Match Review
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AGFC 1 vs. 5 Pontypool Baggies
Date: 19-Dec-2006
Venue: Treforest
Goals:
Calvin Yau
1
Man of the Match:
Paul
Report:
AGFC played their first match on the new specially designed 3G Astroturf pitch at Treforest. The revolutionary new surface is an Astroturf carpet which is filled with shredded rubber and is sometimes known as a 'rubber crumb' pitch, but it was AGFC who had to work hard for crumbs of possession against a young and well schooled Pontypool outfit. The first half started with Baggies pressing hard looking for an opening but AGFC stood up well to the task and kept the Baggies out for the first 30 minutes. The Baggies finally broke the deadlock with three goals in quick succession which included an own goal which AGFC were unlucky to concede.
At three nil down at the end of the first period AGFC heads could have dropped but with a change in formation in playing five men across the middle and one up front AGFC's organisation on the pitch was improved and they did manage to find space and create some openings. The hard worked defence earned their corn for the full 90 minutes and turned in some good performances, not reflected by the scoreline, the midfield battled hard and worked manfully but just lacked a little in quality and innovation on the night. AGFC did concede two further goals - the best which a fine cross and guided header which gave the keeper and defenders no chance. Calvin, returning after a recent injury enforced spell on the sidelines, added the necessary urgency to the frontline, snapping at the heels of defenders like an over exuberant terrier on heat. AGFC finally grabbed a consolation as the Baggies Keeper could only manage to glove a rare AGFC corner, allowing Calvin to score at the back post.
A disappointing result for AGFC just before the Xmas break, but the Team could not be faulted for commitment and perseverance, against one of the best sides encountered for many a season, typified by another man of the match performance in goal by Paul who seems to have cemented his place in the side. With a packed January schedule looming on the horizon players will need to use the next two weeks to recharge batteries but the club will be hopeful of a good start to the new year buoyed by the prospect of key players returning to first team action after lengthy spells on the treatment table.