Boot & Shoe 2    Bentley Motors 4

This was the last chance of any silverware for the Boot and they gave 
everything against a season-long, unbeaten Bentley. On a much improved 
playing surface at Brine Leas the Boot turned it on big-time in the 
first half and took a 2 - 0 lead with goals from Mark Charlesworth 
(Charlie) and Matthew Scanlan (Wag). This was much deserved and reflected the 
Boot's 110% commitment in which they were first to the ball and won all 
50 - 50 balls/tackles. Observers, including 'Beefy' were full of praise 
and said that without doubt it was the best 45 minutes football from 
the Boot this season. Unfortunately this game was in many ways decided by 
the referee. Just before half-time there was a nasty incident in which 
the Bentley full back collided with Charlie. The Bentley player the 
reacted by throwing punches at Charlie when he was down on the floor. He 
naturally tried to fend off these punches. At this point a free for all 
took place when many players became involved in what was a melee. The 
referee then sent off the Bentley player and Charlie and booked the 
Bentley goalkeeper. This completely turned the game as up to that point 
Charlie had tormented the Bentley defence and more goals seemed likely. 
We at the Boot firmly believe that whilst he was down Charlie was within 
his rights to defend himself and hands raised to do this should in no 
way merit a sending off or even a caution. WE WILL APPEAL!! 
Unfortunately things got worse as star-man Chris Lines (Lino) had to leave the 
field with a stomach upset. Bentley took control of the game in the second 
half in which the Boot after all their efforts began to tire. Their 
goals were also a little hard to take as  a mistake and penalty as well as 
two well taken goals presented them with the game. OH SO CLOSE BUT WE 
LIVE TO FIGHT ANOTHER DAY. A tremendous Cup-Tie and one that the ever 
improving Boot side can learn from. Our final home game is at Brine Leas 
next Sunday against Nantwich Wanderers