Winton 4-1 The Loco

Loco’s toughest match of the season ended in defeat against Division Five
title contenders AFC Winton. There was plenty to learn from and an array of
positives to take into the league game this Sunday.

A relatively even start to the game was thrown into life by the awarding of a
Winton penalty. Standing right by the incident I could see why it was given and
would be surprised if there had been no appeals had it happened at the other
end. The back four and Rob in particular should not let that distract from a
first half defensive performance almost right on cue to the gaffer’s
instructions.

Andy Smith went in late on the Winton captain and the skipper responded by
kicking out at the Loco frontman. He was only given a talking to by the referee;
next week will determine which style of officiating works best in this
circumstance.

Loco’s best chance of the first half (penalty aside) fell to Dave. His lobbed
effort heading straight for the top corner was somehow palmed for a corner in
what must be one of the best saves in a Loco match for some time. Fat Luke
watched on, maybe re-living nightmares of a rather different lob two seasons
ago.

From the corner the referee awarded the second penalty of the game and in
changing his mind at the last moment Rob clipped the outside of the post. Winton
counter attacked and made it 2-0 at the break.

In the second half a flicked header made it 3-0 and the chances were more
frequent as the space opened up. It was no real surprise considering some of
their better players train twice a week The game never descended into a farce
though, a credit to Loco considering Winton’s other results this season.

Before a third penalty gave Winton a fourth goal Eddie pulled one back for
Loco. Looking desperate throughout the whole game to be playing more central,
Paul switched him with Ali and to good effect. A great finish from the edge of
the box to give the home side something to think about. It was far from a stroll
in the park and the Loco will be looking forward to the forthcoming league
fixture.