Poulton’s Late Push Falls Short as CMB Edge Contest

Poulton got off to a bright start in Saturday’s clash against CMB, quickly settling into their passing rhythm and dominating early possession. However, it was CMB who struck first, taking advantage of their strength in set pieces and early balls into the box. Just six minutes into the game, a well-delivered corner found Grimshaw, who slipped his marker and powered a header past the Poulton goalkeeper to give CMB a 1-0 lead.

Despite controlling possession, Poulton looked vulnerable whenever CMB launched long balls into the box. However, it was not this vulnerability that led to the next goal. Midway through the first half a rare error from the usually reliable Ridings gifted Grimshaw his second goal of the afternoon, an easy tap-in that doubled CMB’s advantage. The goal deflated Poulton temporarily, but they soon regrouped, with Scammel looking particularly lively as they pushed for a way back into the match.

The halftime whistle blew with CMB leading 2-0, despite Poulton’s dominance in possession.

The second half picked up where it left off, with Poulton continuing to control the ball and playing some exciting, free-flowing football. Their efforts were relentless, launching wave after wave of attack on the CMB defence. However, CMB’s backline held firm, frustrating Poulton’s attempts to find the back of the net. Billy Joyce, who was later named Man of the Match, came close with a shot from just outside the box. Additionally, Josh Errington and Toby Scammel delivered some dangerous crosses into the box, but Poulton’s forwards were unable to convert.

As the clock ticked down, it seemed Poulton’s efforts might go unrewarded. But in the 91st minute, Scammel was brought down in the box, earning a penalty. Max Landless stepped up and calmly slotted the ball home, setting up a tense finale as Poulton threw everything forward in search of an equaliser. Despite the late surge, CMB held on to secure a 2-1 victory.

After the match, Poulton manager Dale Azzopardi remained upbeat despite the result. “The lads were brilliant today and moved the ball really well. The second half was particularly good, and we must have had about 70% possession, most of it in the opposition half. We now need to capitalise on this and add goals, but I know this will come as the lads continue to work hard to improve,” he said.

Poulton will look to bounce back when they travel to face Milnthorpe Corinthians on Tuesday evening.