Victorious Minch destroys Slimbridge's unbeaten record (From Stroud News and Journal)

Victorious Minch destroys Slimbridge's unbeaten record

Minch RDS FC

Stroud League Division 1 RDS 2, Slimbridge Reserves 1 THE division's top clash of the day on Saturday saw the end of top-placed Slimbridge's proud 100 percent record which fell to a victorious fourth-placed Minchinhampton RDS. While both sides started brightly, it was Slimbridge who almost took an early lead. When Tom Cole's free kick struck the bar, Matt Francis had to be alive to hack the rebound clear of Dennis Hylton, who was poised to slam the loose ball home. After almost 15 minutes, the endeavours of RDS were rewarded when a fierce shot from Neil Humphries was beaten away by Ryan Chandler in the Slimbridge goal. When his effort fell to Damian Ockham, Chandler made another a great save, but this time the ball fell to the feet of Paul Day, who steered it home from close range. The remainder of the half settled into a competitive, end-to-end tussle with both sides largely cancelling themselves out. Unfortunately, a minute or so from half-time, RDS were dealt a major blow when front-man Des Humphreys was forced to leave the field after a nasty clash of heads. With Humphreys unable to continue, Steve Mertens pushed up front and substitute Si Morgan took his right midfield role. The second half was fiercely competitive with Slimbridge enjoying lots of possession, but finding it difficult to pick a way through a resolute and determined opposition's defence. After 20 minutes, Mike Scott broke clear of the Slimbridge defence and outpaced them en route to goal. He drew the keeper before squaring the ball to Paul Day who slammed his effort into the net at the back post. The opposition's reply was to pile men forward and Minch RDS had to deal with wave after wave of attacks, but stood firm until Slimbridge pulled a goal back with ten minutes remaining. A cross was only half-cleared and Tom Cole sent in a thunderous drive which arrowed into the back of the net to set up a frantic climax to the match. Slimbridge again pushed on and Hylton brought a stunning full-stretch save out of Matt Francis. Hylton then tumbled in the box and looked for a penalty, but the appeals were waved away. With time ebbing away, the referee was kept busy as frustrations threatened to boil over. In fact, with seconds left on the clock, Slimbridge's Scott Lane received his marching orders for remarks made to the referee. Minch RDS man of the match went fittingly to their two-goal hero, Paul Day. Thanks are also expressed to club sponsors, RDS Technology Limited.