Hempnall FC

Hempnall met D4 North side Ingoldisthorpe in the Junior Cup.

Hempnall were missing two key players through illness, though were still able to field a very competitive squad, though several players were playing out of position.

After a delayed start due to delayed arrival of Ingoldisthorpe’s kit, the teams looked evenly matched with Hempnall well below their normal standard for this season, the enforced team changes affecting team cohesion.

Ingoldisthorpe were matching Hempnall in all areas, with their defence snuffing out many of the Hempnall attacks. 

For some reason, the lacklustre performance of the home team continued throughout the first half, and despite a number of corners, Hempnall could not find the final touch.

Ingoldisthorpe were certainly playing their part, and the Hempnall defence were tested on several occasions, with Swatman in the Hempnall goal having to be quick off his line to snuff out the Ingoldisthorpe forwards.

Hempnall’s best chance fell to Goldie though after a fine one touch move, he shot tamely and the keeper had no problem scooping up the ball.

Half time 0-0

We were hoping Hempnall would shake off the relative lethargy, and the half time talk clearly helped, as Hempnall came out with more vigour, though their attacks were again thwarted by a determined and well organised Ingoldisthorpe defence.

Hempnall looked though, the more likely to score, with Ingoldisthorpe confined to one or two breakaways that could well, with better finishing, have resulted in a goal.

Swatman in the Hempnall goal made one good save, but it was Hempnall generally on top.

Cattermole had one good chance hit the post, then Herbert saw a cross shot just pass the post.

Hempnall kept pressing, but their many attacks were thwarted by an equally determined defence and the final score ended up 0-0.

This was perhaps slightly unfortunate for a below par Hempnall, but Ingoldisthorpe were deserving of the result.

On to penalties, and it was a tale of two keepers, the Hempnall keeper making a couple of fine saves, though the Ingoldisthorpe keeper also managed one. Otherwise, penalties were secure, with Hempnall coming out on top 4-3.

The third round now beckons.

The man of the match for me was a comfortable decision this week, and despite several decent performances, the stand out player was Mikey Goldie.