Saturday 14th August 1971
WORDSWORTH’S PLAY POETRY TO NORTHWOOD
RAYNERS LANE 1 NORTHWOOD 2
Willy Wordsworth was Woods hero in this local derby friendly with Middlesex League rivals Rayners Lane. He brought his goal tally to three in three outings since he joined the club, having scored in both previous games, at Harefield and Hayes.
Northwood were without three first team players and they took time to settle down. In fact, Rayners Lane took the lead when Bailey put through his own goal, but Woods came back after this. Prompted by Gould, Harvey and Senior, the Northwood attack started to split the home defence. They were level by half-time.
Bailey made amends for his earlier error when he hit a long ball for Wordsworth to chase. The winger seemed to have little chance but his speed carried him through the defence and he hit the ball home.
The second half saw the 'Woods gaining control but Rayners Lane also had their moments. John Myers had a good game in the 'Woods defence but had his day spoiled when he gashed his leg and had to be taken .to hospital for stitches.
Northwood's winner came when Godley followed a neat interception with a good through ball for Ian Harvey to break clear and hit the ball past the 'keeper. The Woods’ performance was not up to that of the past three matches. But the talent is there and if blended correctly should give the team a successful season in the Middlesex League.
Northwood. B. Smalley; D A. Byrne, P. Madigan; D. Dibbens, P. Bailey, J. Myers; B. Gould, I. Harvey, S. Senior, S. Pearce, W. Wordsworth. Subs: A. Roche, D. Godley.
|
