The Harriers made the long trip to face Blidworth Bengals, looking to register the first points in Division two.

Facing a strong side, the Harriers knew they would need to be at their best. Unfortunately, it turned into a difficult morning. A true classic example of the highs and lows of grassroots football.

From the off it was clear that the Harriers were not their usual competitive selves, giving their opponents too much time on the ball and not clearing our penalty area, resulting in 3 early goals. The Harriers would usually fight back from this type of setback but were unable to get a foothold in the game. Blidworth’s dominance added 2 more goals. It could have been three more but for a top draw penalty save from Leo Edge.

In the second half the Harriers tried to fight back. Alex and Stanley Taylor were as committed as ever in defence. In midfield, Captain for the day, Ashton Vallis battled gamely against players twice his size, backed up by Kaiden Charlton and Charnley Bolton. Harry Haslam got the ball down and played some nice passes and looked more composed in this unsure team performance. In attack, Alin Dragu and Louie West tried to make some forward runs, but found Blidworths defence a formidable outfit.

As the game went on, the Harriers changed formation pushing players higher up the pitch, leaving defender Riley Thacker exposed at the back, but to Riley’s credit, he battled on and made some great tackles, even when outnumbered at times.

Blidworth added two more goals to round of a very dominant performance. Credit has to go to our opposition. They played at the peak of their game and fully deserved the win. Despite the score line, the Harriers continued to fight and try their best. This was just one of those games. Grassroots football is all about learning. Winning, loosing, drawing games is all part of the process. The Harriers are made of strong stuff and will bounce back. Heads up, Harriers. We go again.

MOM - Close one between Riley Thacker and Harry Haslam. Riley just edged it with his brilliant attitude when asked to defend on his own, Well done, Riley.

The Harriers are proudly sponsored by TC Harrison JCB. Thank you for your support.

Heanor Town Football Club

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