This was the final chance for the youngsters to impress skipper Steve Brooks before the League Season starts next week. And with newcomer Simon Downer trying to rejoin the higher echelon it soon became apparent that Beeston were to be no pushover. In actual fact they looked very positive in their approach play but fell down slightly with the final pass. Matters weren't helped when Simon Downer got into the circle, but according to their Umpire, was never fouled - he just lost control?
Midway through the half Beeston had a chance to take the lead. A switch move at a penalty corner gave Graham Bentley a chance from close range but he pushed the ball wide of the far post. Soon after Cannock took the lead when Beeston's midfield lost possession, and the inside forward ran at the defence. Ali Hartley's unlucky deflection found it's way home.
In the second half Beeston came even more into the game with Michael Williamson linking up well down the right. Beeston did have a few half chances but these were all wasted. As the half progressed it became more desperate as they tried to push forward but Beeston had Richard Aylwin who used his subtlety to slow down their centre forward. Beeston did create a few half chances but none were taken. With only 5 minutes left Cannock's replacement centre forward managed to make the game safe. Both Aylwin and Hall failed to make the tackle as the ball moved slowly into the circle, leaving the forward free to net in the corner.
Ali Hartley
Phil Hall
Gary Steeples Richard Aylwin Steve Brooks
Simon Downer Clive Biddlecombe Robin Schmidt
Michael Williamson Tom Keysell Graham Bentley