NOTHING IFFY AS SHOTS FLY!
Gary’s boys hit top form
FORTRESS EBB Stadium claimed another victim as Aldershot extended their unbeaten run to seven games.
Neil Aspin argued that the scoreline flattered the Shots, and Gateshead will reflect upon several good chances spurned, but this was further evidence of Aldershot’s resurgence under Gary Waddock built on the twin pillars of fine finishing and an obdurate defence.
“If we play like that we give ourselves a chance in any game,” enthused Waddock, “but you only get your rewards if you work hard.
“We were more controlled in our play than against Southport last week and I felt comfortable during game.”
Playing three wingers behind striker Matt McClure, the Shots began at a high tempo but had to be patient in a firsthalf which, although blessed with ample pace, endeavour and attacking intent, yielded few clear opportunities.
Wes York nipped in as Will Evans tried to trap a pass on his chest, racing through on goal but chipping his shot wide.
Danny Johnson and Mitch Brundle curled shots wide but the major talking point came on 35 minutes, as McClure was ushered off the ball on a run into the box. Iffy Allen took a further touch and went down as Hanford dived at his feet, seemingly taking both man and ball but referee Bromley remained unmoved.
The deadlock was broken on 50 minutes, as a fine crossfield pass found Allen on the left. Manny Smith backtracked into the penalty area, affording Allen the space to bend a delicious shot into the far corner. Danny Johnson’s cross-shot flew through Jake Cole’s goalmouth but on 59 minutes the Shots again took their own chance. McClure spun into the box and induced the foul from James Bolton before picking himself up to score with a confident penalty.
Such moments prompted Aspin to summarise: “I don’t think the scoreline was a fair reflection of the game. We’ve had enough chances to score, and we’ve got into good areas several times – where our final ball was lacking.”
Subs Sam Jones and Reece Styche were both profligate – the latter with a free header from six yards – and Charlie Walker, Shots’ own replacement, walked the ball into the net in stoppage time after a flowing counter-attack involving Allen and Josh Wakefield.