This article about our U21s side, from Matt Tennant, looks at last weekend’s outstanding comeback win and this Saturday’s match…
Bromsgrove Sporting U21s ran out 2-3 winners last weekend, after a hard fought comeback against Stafford Rangers U21s away.
Most saw Bromsgrove as the favourites ahead of the weekend, with the Rouslers on four more wins and ahead of Stafford in the table by almost half way.
The home side, however, were no easy challenge. Controlling the ball and sniffing out chances when they came, Stafford scored twice in the first half.
Bromsgrove’s Brendan Field also grabbed a goal for the visitors but as the Rangers held a 2-1 lead at half time, Sporting prepared themselves for a big second half.
Bromsgrove wasted no time after the break, pummeling the home side’s back line to set up Jack Wyton’s equaliser within minutes of the second half.
Both teams continued to lock horns realising that it was now anyone’s to take.
Bromsgrove stayed composed and kept knocking on the door, until some impressive play allowed Alemi Obey-GM to score with a well executed finish to complete a spirited Bromsgrove comeback.
Under 21s joint-manager, Stuart Carson, said: “Sometimes no matter how well you prepare, things just work against you.
“This was the feeling at the start of the first half, after a strange start to the game where we didn’t get the ball back after an injury to the opposition and we conceded from the resulting corner.
“The second was more confusing, clearly offside and even commented on by Stafford’s first team management.
“But what pleased us most is the fashion we grew into the game, scoring a good first and creating numerous chances.
“Going into half time 2-1 down didn’t justify our attacking play. A few tweaks and we came out firing, on the front foot.
“Full credit to the lads we have worked on set pieces a lot during the break in games and it was only a matter of time before it paid off.
“Once we equalised, it was just a matter of time and another fine move released Alemi, who finished with composure.
“I thought we then managed the game well for the last 15 minutes and could have even extended our lead. Thanks to Stafford for a competitive game.”
This week, Bromsgrove hit the road again to visit Mercia Athletic U21s. Mercia are currently 16th in the League with 10 points.
The home side have achieved three wins and one draw in the League this season, as well as a fair Cup campaign, with one win and a penalty shootout loss in the next round.
After enduring a three game losing streak, made even more painful by consecutive losses to Rushall Olympic U21s in the Challenge Bowl and MFL competitions, the team will be desperate to push for a win and regain some confidence.
On the other hand, Bromsgrove Sporting are enjoying a positive second half to the season, with four league wins out of five since the turn of the year.
The Rouslers are pushing hard to defend their eighth place standing – Coalville Town Ravens are also on 24 points and Stourport Swifts are a point behind on 23.
Sporting will need to be clincial if they are to fend off the competition, with every point counting as the end of the season creeps closer.
Can Bromsgrove add to their three game win streak in the league to stay ahead of the pack, or will Mercia Athletic finally get the breakthrough they so desperately want?
Find out this Saturday 28th March at 10:30 AM when Mercia Athletic U21 host Bromsgrove Sporting U21 at Birmingham City University’s The Pavilion Ground.
