It was sunglasses weather at The Bury on a crisp winter’s morning and the crowd were treated to a very competitive game. Coach Craig Ivison was otherwise engaged looking after a new arrival so Rod Tanner took the reins for the day.
The Blues lined up with Thomas Deane in goal, Tom Flanagan in defence, Ronnie Hennessey on the right, Oliver Tallis on the left and Finlay Tanner up front. The first half was pretty even with Cougars pressing well high up the pitch and Stotfold looking to counter with pace. Thomas Deane had to make some vital interceptions and saves and at the other end Finlay Tanner struck for Cougars with a 25 yarder that just evaded the keeper.
The second half saw Oliver Tallis and Finlay Tanner share goalkeeping duties, each making telling contributions before the goal of the game; Flanagan taking a quick sharp throw to Hennessey down the wing who cleverly fed Deane in on goal – one touch and struck past the keeper. The only disappointment was the lack of a Bebeto “rock the baby” celebration in honour of the latest Ivison arrival. Cougars continued to press till the end with several chances created. A great game for the crowd. Well played Blues.