Straight from the kick off Knowles pressed hard, showing their desire to gain respect after their previous defeat by the Shambles.

Each ball charged down, slick passing and great efforts on goal. Unfortunately for Knowles James was in top form making a number of early saves to keep the scores level.

The Shambles players looked tired, their usual relaxed play was undermined by the constant pressure of the hungry Knowles. Within minutes they struck first blood. Defending against the onslaught was made even harder as the defenders pushed forward in support, several occaisions two or three against one before the first goal was conceeded. 1-0 Knowles.

Desire was the difference, yet again the Knowles attacked, a forward left unmarked slotted home the second of the night.

Surely a famous revival was on the cards? Well possibly, but the Shambles were soon three down, Hitman Holmes making a block which found the corner of the net... Oh, his own net! James would have had it covered too! Just like one of the offensive defenders back passes I suppose... 3-0

Chins up, Shambles went about their duty. Rob, having run several hundred miles in the past week, had the skill and composure to manouver through the Knowles mid-field and lay of a perfectly weighted pass to the hard working Bandit, Tim. With perfect execution, Tim beat the keeper to bring the boys in yellow back into it. 3-1.

After the promising move the Shambles were keen to reduce the deficeit before half time. Then the whistle blew. Time for Gatorade...

After the first half of the season, seeing the commitment of the Shambles lads you would expect a rally, at least a draw. But, it was not to be. In a moment of little pressure the Shambles defender opted to allow the ball to run into the back corner instead of playing a back pass to the keeper. He was soon closed down by an aggressive forward and the ball was played back to a willing team-mate who without hesitation found the top corner of James's net. James had no chance. 4-1. This was of little consequence as further onslaughts ensued.

Another forward move by the Knowles saw James rush forward to parry, his momentum carried him outside the box where he made an even more impressive second save with his face! Appeals were dismissed, the score-line remained the same and it was deemed to be 'keepers ball'

The Shambles tried to push forward but the understanding of the forwards was not quite there on this occasion. Players were becoming frustrated and this affected the overall performance. Knowles were strong in their challenges, they could taste revenge and held firm throughout.

Apparently they scored a couple of other goals too, however the lads had lost the will to fill-in the score sheet to assist with the report!

Knowles deserved the win, they were a stronger side, more committed and with the desire to succeed. Shambles still retain top spot but every team out there on the return leg will be keen to knock our title hopes. Come on lads, this is our time to prove ourselves. Victory is our only option.