For the first half Corringham had the wind in there favour but even though they were quick on the break the Reds were making some super tackles and winning the ball. The strong opening from the Reds was led by Eric who was having another excellent game in goal. He was catching the ball in the air and making dives to his left and right. Similarly Ryan took some superb free kicks just skimming the cross bar but without a breakthrough it was becoming a very tense game all round. There was some excellent football on show as the Reds knew they could not afford to lose and Corringham wanted the league’s top spot.

Jordon and Reece, in defence, both had their work cut out and James who was playing with a bruised hand was up against his school friend. The tackles James made on his friend were out off this world as, after losing the earlier fixture, he wanted the bragging rights at school. Brandon and Tom, in the midfield, were playing the ball around the opposition players before laying it off to Ryan. Half time the score was 0-0.

The second half started with Athletics’ kick-off and the Corringham player passed the ball back to his defence which Ryan quickly chased down. He tackled and won the ball before turning another player. He crossed the ball in front of the goal and Brandon coolly tapped in. 1-0 Reds.

Minutes later Athletic passed the ball up field and managed to get past the Reds midfield and then past the defence. The resulting shot was superbly saved by Eric making a super dive and pushing the ball wide.

Tom came off with 10 minutes to go which gave Troy a chance to get involved in this nail biting game. Straight away Troy was tackled and fouled winning the Reds a free kick just outside the Corringham box. Not all the Reds came up fro the free kick as Manager Paul kept a few in defence as he was out for the win not more goals. Ryan ran up and took a super shot which with the wind behind flew towards the Athletic goal Troy, on his toes, deflected the ball with his head past the keeper for 2-0 to the Reds.

With little time left it was time to defend the lead but Jordon and Reece pushed up too much leaving Eric, on his own, to deal with a very fast striker coming towards him. This time the striker won the battle neatly placing it past Eric for 2-1. With minutes to go everyone was shouting to the Reds for everyone to get back and defend as no-one on the Reds side wanted to give away the victory now. Eventually the final whistle went and the Reds were overjoyed with the result.

Man Of The Match: James Stephens

Ryan Dresou

James Stephens

Reece Mayes (C)

Brandon Little

Eric Hansen

Tom Barak

Troy Diggory

Jordon Ginty