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The fourth XI travelled to Diamond Windows buoyed by the fact that Nick Ling had recovered from his life threatening head injury sustained the previous week.
There were a few player issues to iron out before they started their journey with Joe Thorne and Adam Hughes both moving up to the second XI at the last minute meaning Sheena Marsh was the only substitute for what was expected to be a tough physical game.
The game started off quite promisingly for Wulfs and it was clear that by applying a little pressure to their back line, it could prove to be a fruitful afternoon. This was due to the fact that although they liked to play football at the back - unfortunately for them, they couldn't. Paul Janos and Mike Garner both had a couple of half chances after some good pressing but unfortunately their hard work was to no avail.
At the other end, Wulfs were defending resolutely and Windows weren't getting a sniff, partly helped by the slope on the pitch that meant every time they hoofed the ball up to their big black striker, it bounced straight through to Roscoe. On the subject of Roscoe, it was great to see him back between the sticks for the 4th XI and long my it continue. Ashley Brown has been superb all season and Roscoe was lucky that he now has gone to coach tennis on Saturdays rather than play football. Why anyone would rather go down to the local tennis club to coach young, attractive girls in mini-skirts and get paid for it than play for the fourth XI is beyond me - good luck anyway Ash - hope to see you next season.
The game was of poor quality, much the same as some of the Diamond Window's tackles and indeed the referee. Both sides were putting in a battling performance but neither could make the breakthrough before half time with Paul Janos coming closest for Wulfs with a twenty yard volley after good inter-play between Nick Ling and Stuart Wright down the left.
The second half was all about the father and son Marshy partnership. Firstly, Richard Marsh was pulled up for a foul throw-in because his foot was off the floor - which showed just how terrible the official was. Marshy has the unique ability a being able to take a throw in without worrying about his feet as two of his three lower limbs are always on the floor at any one time. Then, after an injury to Sam Cole midway through the half, it was Sheena's turn to step into the limelight. It was clear Sam would not be able to continue after a horrendous challenge from the Windows forward. Sheena took off his tracksuit bottoms ready to come on when he realised that he had forgotten to put on his shorts and had his shirt tucked into his Y-fronts. A quick botch job and with tracksuit bottoms tucked into socks, Sheena eventually took the field.
In between the antics of the Marsh double act, Windows took a lucky lead with a deflected goal that Roscoe could do nothing about. Despite a good performance, Wulfs failed to equalise and the game finished 1-0 to Diamond. Wulfs did however have a golden chance to score in the final seconds when Chris Nicholls threaded the ball through the eye of a jap to Mike Garner. He was in the clear to the left of the penalty area but despite going for goal he took the unselfish option and dribbled the ball out of play.
Unlucky on the day but some great munches from Chris Nicholls and Andy Carey on the dirty bar stewards of Windows. Good performances also from Rami Labib and Mike Garner (apart from the final minute!).
Final score: Diamond Windows 1 Old Wulfrunians 0.
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