Cullompton Rangers LFC
13th August 2006: Friendly v Plymouth Argyle
Cracking start to the season!
Cullompton Rangers LFC inaugural match proved successful as they came out winners over Plymouth Argyle with a 2-0 scoreline.
Both teams were experimenting with new players and formations assisted by the referee agreeing to play three 30 minute periods with rolling substitutes. Manager Phil Tuckett and coach Richard Dingle had available a squad of 16, playing together for the first time in a match situation. The recently formed team ran out for the first time in their new red and black kit (kindly sponsored by Accident Exchange) onto a well presented Speeds Meadow pitch.
A "friendly" was perhaps not the best way of describing the game, with pride and places to play for. The tackles came in thick and fast testing the referee who initially said he wouldnt produce cards but would "warn" and "sin bin" instead. Despite both teams fielding new players free flowing football was played, with Argyle the first to attack the Cully goal. Plymouths new signing, Helen Kukor, playing against several former team mates, had the first chance on goal. Her shot flew wide without testing keeper, Max. Max made a welcome return to goal despite having a tremendous season as a striker last year.
Cully adapted well to the short, sharp passing football implemented by coach Richard in pre season training.
The breakthrough came
with good build up play from defence. From the left Bucky passed the ball to Rachel who went on a darting run until she was fouled by an Argyle defender 10 yards
outside the box. Whilst Argyle were still trying to organise their wall, Jamie took full advantage and thundered her free kick straight past the keeper
into the top of the net.
The second period allowed Cully to change players, Kerry and Josie returning to defence, Curly and Gemma in midfield and Emma up front.
With tackles still flying, the middle period of the game was less than friendly.
Josie was adjudged to have tackled Argyle forward Sam Blake unfairly, awarding a penalty to the visitors.
Good banter then ensued between Argyle skipper Kay Lewis and Max in goal....with Max coming out the winner of the mind games as the midfielder blasted her penalty over the bar.
It was the wake-up call Cully needed, who continued to press with good link up play between Curly and Gemma in midfield. A lofted ball over the defence left the Argyle players stranded
as the Cully striker nipped in and superbly lofted the ball over the oncoming Argyle keeper.
The second period was slightly marred by a player from each side being sin-binned. A strong tackle by defender Kelly was
not appreciated by Argyles Laura Perret, which culminated in a battle between the two...not involving the ball!!
The third period brought about further changes, some influenced by injuries and others by blisters...Jamie! The players continued to battle to the end although match fitness and a hard pitch proved a test in the latter stages. The 2-0 scoreline remained. A hard fought game was played by both teams, and appreciated by supporters and neutrals alike.
Phil and Richard were pleased with the players performances, all adapting well to new positions and team mates. The scoreline was a bonus. Also, for the ex Newton Abbot players amongst the Cully team it was a touch of sweet revenge, having been on the losing side against Argyle several times last season. A promising start for all involved and a great confidence boost beating a combination league team. A note of thanks also to some people behind the scenes today - Dan for the warm up, Marcus for running the bar, and Angie and Beccy for cooking the after match refreshments.
The next scheduled pre-season friendly is Sunday 20th August, at Speeds Meadow, 2pm kick off.
Squad
GK: Max
Defence: Becky, Bucky, Chrissie, Josie, Kelly, Kerry
Midfield: Curly, Gemma, Jamie, Jess, Sam, Titch
Forwards: Emma, Goughy, Rachel