Result: 2-2 Draw
Bold Miners FC showcased a much-improved performance from their previous 3-0 defeat against Whitecross, playing out from the back throughout the game and demonstrating significantly more composure in possession. This positive shift in play was evident as they hosted Penlake in a thrilling encounter.
First Half:
Bold Miners took the lead in the 24th minute with a well-executed set-piece. Carl Chisnall delivered a pinpoint free kick from the halfway line, finding Kieran McKelvie, who headed towards goal. The Penlake goalkeeper could only parry the ball into the path of Jack Seddon, who made no mistake from close range, slotting the ball home to give Bold Miners a 1-0 advantage. The home side maintained their lead and went into halftime 1-0 up, showing great defensive solidity and fluidity in their build-up play.
Second Half:
The second half saw some controversial moments. Penlake equalised in the 62nd minute under contentious circumstances. Following a prolonged stoppage due to an injury to their keeper, the referee allowed play to resume with a drop ball while some Bold Miners players were still returning to the field from a drinks break. Taking advantage of the situation, Penlake moved the ball forward quickly, and after just two passes, they found the back of the net.
Bold Miners quickly responded and regained the lead in the 67th minute. Gareth Griffiths latched onto a superb lobbed through ball from Tommy Howard and calmly finished past the Penlake keeper. Griffiths’ goal was a testament to the team’s resilience and attacking quality.
The match also saw a promising debut for Jake Hill, who impressed on the left wing. Will McArthur – younger brother of Euan McArthur – came on in the second half and caused significant problems for the Penlake defence, nearly scoring with a long-range effort. Jay Jones also came off the bench was calm and composed in midfield, further solidifying Bold Miners’ control.
Unfortunately, Bold Miners conceded a 90th-minute equaliser after a questionable foul decision in the middle of the park. The resulting long free kick found a Penlake attacker unmarked in the area, who calmly slotted it past Wood, leaving the home side feeling hard done by.
Player Performances:
- Kieran McKelvie made a stellar return to the lineup after a calf injury, delivering a solid defensive performance, assisting Seddon’s goal, and posing a creative threat going forward. He was unlucky not to score a header from a Gareth Griffiths cross in the second half.
- Midfielders Mike Nelson and Tommy Howard were excellent throughout, controlling the tempo and breaking up play effectively.
- Jack Seddon was an absolute engine in midfield, tirelessly covering every blade of grass and never stopping his relentless running throughout the match.
- Gareth Griffiths took on the number 9 shirt following Liam Stanley’s move to FC St Helens Reserves and did a fantastic job at centre forward, providing a strong physical presence and capping his performance with a well-deserved goal.
- The Player of the Match was awarded to Chris Wood, who deputised brilliantly for Paul Strickland in goal, making several crucial saves.
Hard Work Paying Off:
First team manager Luke Lawson’s emphasis on playing out from the back had a huge impact on the performance in this game, significantly improving the team’s composure and ball control. This strategic focus has been a key aspect of Luke’s training sessions, where he has diligently worked with the players to enhance their confidence and precision in building attacks from the defensive line. The results were evident on the pitch, as Bold Miners displayed a newfound calmness in possession, effectively neutralizing Penlake’s press and creating numerous opportunities through well-constructed play from the back.
Key Highlights:
- Goals:
Jack Seddon (24′) assisted by Kieran McKelvie
Gareth Griffiths (67′) assisted by Tommy Howard - Debuts: Jake Hill, Will McArthur, Jay Jones
- Stellar performances from Kieran McKelvie, Mike Nelson, and Tommy Howard
- Player of the Match: Chris Wood
Summary
Despite the late setback, Bold Miners FC can take many positives from this performance. The team showed significant improvement, a newfound composure in possession, and a fighting spirit that suggests they are on the right track. The feeling of “should have won” is a testament to their dominant display and resilience throughout the match.
Bold Miners FC will look to build on this performance and continue their upward trajectory in the coming matches.
