Point-to-Point 5 v Shelbyville 0 (2-0)
Line-up: Tom B; Dave (Paul B), Ryan, Matt, Chris S; Chris P, Mike L, Mike B; Rich (Paddy), Paul G, Tom M (Nick M)
MOM: Paul Goodier
Dave Scurr, 20th November, Preston Park
-----------------------------------------------------------------
After a Remembrance day to forget last Sunday (Point were held to a 0-0 draw against nine men at home), the series of home league games resumed in impressive fashion for the Preston Parkers as they produced their best display yet of the campaign. Persevering with their 4-3-3 formation, the home team scored five and crucially kept a clean sheet against an opposition that had put four past them just a few weeks ago. It was an overdue performance, full of discipline, composure and confidence epitomised by the unplayable Paul Goodier who scored three, won two penalties and ran relentlessly to traumatise his bruised opponents.
Gaffer Weston tinkered some more with the 4-3-3 personnel and must get some of the plaudits for such a fluid display. The midfield three of Philips, Layzell and newcomer Mike worked a treat and provided the platform for the much talked about passing game that is sporadically produced on the training ground but rarely displayed on Sundays. Most of the play went through the midfield as they picked out the runs of the animated front three and controlled proceedings with gusto. The back four kept a tight line and stayed disciplined throughout the home team's many attacks. Few fouls were committed and plenty of communication all across their ranks helped Point grow in confidence against a scrappy Shelbyville.
When Rich hit the woodwork from the spot, it seemed like another case of 'missed opportunities'; however, Paul Goodier was in clinical mood and scored the first of his three excellent goals with a low diagonal drive from just inside the area. The home team piled on the pressure and rattled their opponents, Goodier winning another penalty in the area this time converted confidently by Layzell.
With a spring in their steps, Point came out in the second half with a determination to pick things up how they left them. From their own penalty area, they countered in compelling fashion, switching from left to right and concluding with the ball in the back of the opposite net. Another outstanding 'team' goal soon followed, Philips finishing some tiki-takking that started from a left-back throw in with a flourish. The insatiable Goodier fired a fifth from long range to cap a confidence-boosting display and keep the Preston Parkers in contention in the Junior 2.
