FOLLOWING THE SALTMEN

Droitwich Spa 1-0 FC Stratford

UhlSport Hellenic League Division One

Tuesday 07 January 2025

Happy New Year from Following the Saltmen!

And it has started brightly enough. After the disappointment of the weekend fixture at Carterton being postponed, Spa returned to action for the first time in 2025 against the first side to take points off the Saltmen this season when the sides drew 1-1 in Stratford all the way back in 2024. The previous encounter was marred by some bizarre refereeing, resulting in a disjointed affair with neither side playing to their usual high standards.

The principal external influence on this fixture at Kingys would turn out to be the pitch, and the weather’s effect on it. Due to the snow and rain in the week before the game, it had not been possible to roll the field prior to the game. As the mercury dropped below freezing point this would become increasingly problematic for both teams.

Spa started brightly creating a couple of chances in the opening minutes, the best falling to Alex Dugmore whose strong strike from ten yards was directed straight at Pheasey in the Stratford goal. It was not to be Duggers’ night. It didn’t take much longer for the games ultimate decider to arrive. Skipper James Lemon was brought down in the penalty area and the referee pointed straight to the spot. Nathan Binner calmly dispatched the spot kick with an excellent strike. Further chances came and went. A fierce goal-bound piledriver from Jack Davies produced a fine save from Pheasey who reacted quickly to push the ball over the bar somewhat ungrateful for the loan of a Spa goalkeeper’s shirt! Our very own foul magnet, the effervescent Perry Moss, can consider himself unlucky not to have been awarded a penalty when he was crudely brought down before he could get a shot away.

The second half was dominated by the visitors who seemed to adapt better to the worsening playing conditions as the frosty pitch began to Arden. Stratford controlled possession and it took a stout rearguard action from the Spa back four, ably assisted by Joe Stockton in the Spa goal who made a couple of notable saves to frustrate the visitors. Spa had chances to make the game safe. Alex Dugmore was put through one on one with Pheasey only to be denied by a fabulous last-ditch challenge while deadly Duggers tried to get a shot away. The, now frozen, pitch undoubtedly played a part as the frustrated Dugmore struggled to control the ball on this tricky surface.

Much to the relief of the majority of the 140 stoic supporters who braved a very chilly evening, the final whistle sounded but not before the return to first team action of Sam Hurdman. Sam has remained a constant presence at Kingys during his long rehabilitation from a nasty injury. It was good to see him appear from the bench and to look so calm and capable in possession.

The Saltmen can probably consider themselves a bit fortunate to take the three points. Regardless of this, it was an important win which helps strengthen their place at the top of the table and stay clear of the chasing pack.

My man of the match would go to Jamie Sauntson who remained dominant in defence and never shied away from putting his body in mortal danger for the cause.

Next up for Spa is the visit of Step 5 Westfield in the cup, this coming Saturday. Hopefully, the weather will allow the pitch to thaw in time.

See you there.

Cheers

Steve

#UTS