Jimmies caught cold on sodden surface

HEYWOOD St James AFC bowed out of the MFA Saturday Challenge Trophy at Phoenix Park when they were beaten 1-3 by fellow Premier Division club Heyside AFC.

On a sodden pitch Jimmies found the conditions not to their liking as control and passing of the ball proved difficult, creating mistakes that persistently presented the alert opposition with unexpected periods of possession in dangerous areas. In addition the Heyside team produced a more energetic and robust style of play that often caught Jimmies on the hop and which meant a busy afternoon for goalkeeper Jack O’ Brian.

Jimmies battled gamely and with 30 minutes played began to find their feet but were stunned when a lofted cross from wide out on the left floated over O’Brian’s outstretched hands and gifted Heyside a1-0 lead.

Jimmies hardly had time to hit back when a swift attack caught the defence napping and the finish gave Heyside a two goal cushion. On the stroke of half time a calamitous defensive error handed Heyside another gifted goal.

Three goals down and 45 minutes left Jimmies, to their credit, began to put passes together, win the tackles and drive the opposition back but found little in the way of good fortune as the Heyside goalkeeper produced two excellent saves.

Callum Heap, Sven Gibson and David McNally ably assisted by the lively Ash McCabe, cut out that Heyside’s threat as Jimmies went for bust.

A life line arrived in the 85th minute when Adam Howe cut inside, switched the ball to his right foot and hammered a glorious drive inside the far post. But it was too late.

First Team v Bolton County (H) KO 2PM, Reserves v Old Altrichamians Reserves (A) KO 2PM. Meet at Clubhouse at 12-30