Barton Stacey   0   Railway Tavern   2

Barry Purdue’s side were without several key players for this tie against bottom of the table Railway Tavern.  Keeper Scott Tarrant was unavailable through injury, Sean Marshall having a go in goal.  Martyn Doolin and Alex Iddles were also out, as was evergreen Chris Dewey who was once again drawn to the water.  With no substitutes available, Purdue’s options were limited.

Barton Stacey started the game well but were unfortunate to fall a goal behind in the 12^th minute after Railway worked the ball down the right hand side to score from close range.  Barton Stacey created chances throughout the first half, free running Dan de Heaume twice unlucky to score, as was Gary Nowel from long range.  Railway Tavern also came close to extending their lead, only to be denied by superb defending from Rhys Betteridge and Lee Maspero, and on two occasions by the striker’s profligacy in front of goal. 

A goal behind at half time Barton Stacey were still in the game, although some of Railway’s football made a mockery of their position at the foot of the table. 

During the opening exchanges of the second half Barton Stacey laid siege to the Railway goal, Dan Knott, Mickey Dewey and Dan de Heaume all having opportunities to equalise.  The entertaining Railway keeper, (think Peter Kay on poppers or Dave Spikey on speed), constantly exhorting his team to do this and not do that, also kept his side in the game with a succession of brave saves. 

Despite Barton Stacey having the upper hand in the second half, Railway extended their lead shortly before the close, after a swift break down the right hand side. Barton  Stacey grateful for the festive break and an opportunity to get injuries healed and their squad back up to full strength.