YARDLEY’s first game of the season in the Midland League Division One ended in a narrow 2-1 defeat at Droitwich, report by Peter Brainch.
The home team settled into their game a little quicker than their visitors, creating several chances but the Yardley defence held reasonably firmly until half-time and they were very much in the match following a goalless opening period.
New signing Harry Brice was instrumental in their efforts to keep Droitwich at bay but it was the hosts who broke the deadlock ten minutes into the second half.
The opening goal seemed to spark Yardley into life and they started to improve their all round game but in spite of this, Droitwich added to their slender lead from a short corner.
Yardley continued with their improved efforts and their goal eventually came when Alex Makepeace drilled the ball into the D from outside the 23 yard line. Noor Zaman managed to get his stick onto the ball and guide it into the goal via the keeper’s shoulder pad.
The visitors continued to press whenever possible and they were prompted by good interplay between their midfield players but they were unable to add to their tally.
Yardley will take heart from their improved second half performance as they look forward to hosting bottom club Barlaston.
