Not the start that Sporting wanted on their first match of the season but it is not all doom and gloom. Their opponents Highgate United were unfortunate to be relegated from the Midland Alliance last season on their failure to comply with ground regulations after finishing in third place. Most players have remained with the Club so a tough match was always expected.
The only goal of the game came in the second minute before the Sporting defence had really settled. Lei Brown put an angled cross into the box from the left that Martin Crawford diverted past Sporting keeper Jake Bedford.
From then onwards there was little to separate the two sides. Sporting needless to say pressed forward in an attempt to get the equaliser whilst Highgate's well-organised defence saw of any threats. They did attempt to increase their lead but were careful not to over-commit themselves and by now the Sporting back four were better organised.
Sporting's best chances of the half came from Billy Russell who flashed a shot across the face of the goal on 16 minutes whilst Tesfa Robinson making his debut as a centre-back had his thundering header well-saved by visiting keeper Paul Hewitt when Sporting gained a free-kick on the 35th minute.
After the interval Sporting carried on much as they had spent the first half with winger Sean Williams looking to be the home side's best opportunity to get on to the score sheet. However Chrisi Conway was also working hard playing behind the two main strikers. He set up a good chance on the 60th minute with a great cross into the box but Robbie Ager put the resulting shot wide.
A couple of minutes later Ager had another opportunity but hit his shot straight at Highgate's keeper.
Former Rover, Danny Campbell substituted Billy Russell in an attempt to give the Sporting attack a fresh pair of legs and a bit of impetus and he came close with his first touch. Shortly after, Sean Williams made a long run down field but put his excellent 20-yard shot over the bar.
With just a few minutes left Sporting thought they may have had a modicum of justice for Highgate's somewhat physical play when Campbell appeared to be fouled in the box but referee Mr Steward simply waved play on.
Highgate's best effort of the half was reserved for added time and with the clock showing a couple of minutes over, Lei Brown beat two defenders before unleashing a fierce shot from the left that Jake Bedford did well to tip over.
So Sporting's opener to the campaign ended in disappointment but it was only the first match, several players were new to the Victoria Ground and they were playing one of the favourites. Probably more excuses than reasons but there is plenty more football to go starting with Wednesday's match away against new promoted Cadbury Athletic.
Sporting (Red/white shirts, blue shorts, blue socks): Jake Bedford, Brett Mander (Kieran Pace 85 mins), Chris Duggan, Ryan Mahon (Peter Christmas 68 mins)), Danny Parker (Capt.), Tesfa Robinson, Sean Williams, Chrisi Conway, Josh McKenzie, Billy Russell (Danny Campbell 63 mins), Robbie Ager.
Subs not used: Ryan Andrews, Cameron Wellington.
Yellow: Chris Duggan (36 mins)
Highgate (Navy blue shirts, red shorts, red socks): Paul Hewitt, Tom Lacey, Nathan Pulisciano, Craig Hall (Capt.), Scott Turner, Craig Thomas (Trevor Edwards 68 mins), Martin Crawford, Brett Fellows, Nathan Edgington, Joe Adams (Connor Mooney 56 mins), Lei Brown.
Subs not used: Michael Batchelor, Luke Himson, Gavin Hurren.
Scorer: Martin Crawford (2 mins)
Yellow: Tom Lacey (88 mins)
Referee: Mr M Steward (Redditch)
Assistants: Mr D Pattison (Bromsgrove), Mr S Robertson (Bromsgrove)
Crowd: 300
Weather: Sunny, showers.
Sporting Man of the Match: Sean Williams
Match Report: Phil Baker |