Pears: “It was one of the strangest games that I’ve ever managed”

BUCKLAND ATHLETIC

FITNESS and tactics will be top of the Buckland agenda this week after they were beaten by Bitton in an extraordinary game of football at Homers Heath.

Buckland led 2-0 and 3-1, but began to tire toward the end and the attacking strategy allowed Bitton back into the game, as they raced into a 4-3 lead. Even then, the Bucks had the energy to draw level but were finally defeated 5-4 by a last-minute goal.

While it was fantastic for the neutral, new manager Richard Pears conceded his side needed to work on their game-management and general condition, as weary legs ultimately cost Buckland the points.

“It was one of the strangest games that I’ve ever managed,” said Pears. “We ripped them to pieces going forward, especially for the first 60 minutes. We were great attacking-wise but, at 3-1, I possibly should have gone with a more defensive approach because we got done on the counter-attack.

“The players were obviously upset after the game and a tough one to take, but we need to improve in how we manage the game. One area we certainly need to work on is our fitness. They gave me absolutely everything but there was very little left in the tank for the last 15 minutes.

“We’re still getting to know each other, I’m learning about the players, conditions, everything to do with the club. The players have had an unsettled pre-season, some have left, some come back and a change in management.

“They’re perhaps not in the best condition for this part of the season but I do take responsibility. At 3-1, I should have taken a less offensive strategy, but loads of positives to take to Hengrove next week.”

It all started so well for the home side, as Richard Groves swung over a delicious cross for recent recruit Ethan Phillips to volley home and Bitton were really struggling when Ryan Bush raced clear to calmly slot in a second.

The visitors responded quickly and Aysa Corrick at the heart of all their good work, but the Buckland approach contin-

Buckland Athletic in their loss to Bitton, with manager Richard Pears (below) watching on ued to be progressive and exciting to watch. Cameron Kelly restored the two-goal advantage and just rewards for his terrific display in midfield.

This was probably the point where the Bucks needed a slight change of strategy, as Bitton grew visibly stronger through the second period, pulling one back on 67 minutes and then two in quick succession left the hosts trailing with time running out.

Incredibly, Groves summoned the energy to make it 4-4 but Buckland switched off from the restart and were punished by the final goal of a memorable match, with Corrick again the catalyst for Bitton.

Buckland travel to Hengrove Athletic this weekend and Pears is already looking forward to spending more time with the players.

“It will be nice to get on the road with the players,” said Pears. “I’ve got competition for places and loads for us to take forward, despite losing in the last minute.”