Windy conditions at Norwood Park turned this into a scrappy affair, with Sculcoates eventually coming out on top.
Manager Dave Walton had to shuffle his pack as Town were without keeper Ben Thompson due to injury and suspension. Johnny Kershaw duly stepped up to the mark and deputised in goal, not for the first team this season, for which Town are grateful as Kershaw showed great attitude and ability to carry out this role.
The first half was very scrappy. Town playing down-hill and down-wind were expected to take full advantage of the conditions, but managed only one shot on goal in 45 minutes. Wing backs Winston Winn and Mike Dickson found themselves penned back by Scully’s dynamic wingers, and Town often shaped up with five flat across the back, giving them limited attacking options.
Sculcoates created a couple of half chances but they were dealt with convincingly by the Town rearguard.
Half time 0-0
Town started the second half playing into the strong wind, and were prepared for a hard-working 45 minutes as Scully were expected to come out and attack in search of a vital win.
After riding out the first 10 minutes Town were hoping to build some possession and create a chance or two. However a short corner from sculcoates was not dealt with, and as the cross/shot came skidding through a crowded penalty box it crept in the far corner, after Mike Dickson miss kicked and inadvertently turned the ball into the back of the net. It was tough luck on Dickson who nine times out of ten would have cleared the ball into row z.
This blow shook Town and 5 minutes later they were 2 down. Some great work by Sculcoates’ winger Ricky Field saw him get to the by line and pull back a pin point cross, which was met by Mike Leng who skilfully placed his header into the top corner past the hapless Kershaw.
This seemed to spur Town into action, and the last 20 minutes saw them have the lion’s share of the game. Manager Walton changed the formation back to a 4-4-2, and Town attacked with purpose and determination, with skipper Jonny Ricardo setting a fine example to his team mates, scrapping for every loose ball and trying everything to get Town back into the game. However Sculcoates defended well and saw the game out without conceding any more goals.
Town face Hornsea at Norwood next week (2pm KO), and must improve on their recent performances to get something out of the game. Manager Dave Walton is keen to strengthen the squad with a new keeper and will be watching a couple of potential signings over the next 7 days.
Beverley Town 0-2 Scullcoates Amateurs
HU17.net Picture Gallery: Click on the thumbnail picture below to enlarge the image to full size
[nggallery id=1167]
HU17.net Picture Gallery: Click on the thumbnail picture below to enlarge the image to full size
