James P was tested from the off and replied with a cracking stop, but unfortunately two lapses in concentration left the Coogan men 2-0 up within minutes. No glaring mistakes made but if the Coogan boys dashed out of the blocks, then Shambles certainly were jogging.

A dissapointing start which could have left heads dangling but James C responded with a vital if not comical goal. He swept a stray ball with his left which the Coogan Keeps could not quite contain. The resulting strike then trickled over the line. Not champagne football but they all count when you are two behind!! James then quickly equalised with his second, soundly converting after a set piece. Back to goal with no clear sightline he instinctively whipped across goal with precision and confidence...2-2.

Both teams battled with a physicality that ruled out any decent football but the odd swift footed exchanges showed promise. Unfortunately it was the CC who won over and secured a third goal and edged ahead. No fancy football but the end product was there and that was undisputable. CC 3-2 up.

The Shambles pressed onwards and the rewards followed. James C slyly played a free-kick cross goal with stealth which left Carl with a sitter that he obliged, thankfully despatching in the ole onion bag. 3-3 and level peggings. Shambles were once again in contention and were playing with a renewed confidence. Passes were slicker and defence tightened up and things were looking good.......this was capped off with a cracking strike from Dave. He received the ball just inside the opposition's half before having a cheeky look up and rifling it to the top left hand corner leaving the keeper planted to the centre of the goal...he had no chance.

Good resolve and for once the Shambles  were ahead!! Confidence grew and some tactical possession ensued....think pass backs and runs to the corner flag and you get the picture. Some dangerous cross box passes left something to be desired but nothing came of the lack lustre defending. James P was being tested left and right and kept the Shambles in it. Leading by example he made half a dozen top drawer saves which we almost come to expect from the solid backstop.

Despite this resolve the CC equalised and then shortly after secued the win with a 5th...a bitter pill to swallow considering the effort and performance but the CC were a solid outfit who deserved the spoils.

A frustrating loss but there was alot to take away from this match and transpose into the next..... the hunger will be greater and the desire heightened. Bring on Citie Central!!!!!