Classics Rule Britannia
The Classics continued their recent good run of form when they entertained Britannia at Newton Athletic Park. The game commenced with the Classics struggling for a team as there was only one sub. when they kicked off. The after match rumour was that the poor turn out was due to Grimsby Town being relegated to the Third Division, but the claim was unsubstantiated as the official Grimsby club spokesman was unavailable for comment on the night.

The game started as an evenly matched affair and some early Britannia chances went amiss but the Classics took the lead through recent goalscoring sensation Chris Arcari. Arcari picked up a loose ball and shot convincingly into the top corner for his fourth goal of the campaign. Billy Ranger doubled the score in the 20th. minute after he picked up a Bruce Cook pass and hammered the ball home. As the half wore on, chances were few and far between at either end but the next goal came through an unlikely source. After a goalmouth scramble, the ball fell loose and Doug Smith was the first to react. Smith was some 12 yards out and he drilled the ball goalwards. The ball was not powerfully hit but it was sufficient to deceive the Britannia keeper and also enough to ensure that the Classics left the field at half time with a 3-0 lead.

Britannia came out for the second half with all guns blazing. A right wing centre-cum-shot deceived Garry Hackel in the Classics goal and Britannia reduced the deficit to two goals. Game on! The respite was short lived as minutes later a free kick was awarded to the Classics on the left side of the penaty box, some 6 yards from the dead ball line. Arcari took the kick and the Classics heavy gang lined up in the box. Arcari deceived everybody as he placed a pin point cross to the head of Smith who was waiting unmarked at the far post. Smith executed the perfect header as he powerfully headed down and reinstated the three goal cushion for the Classics. His goalscoring clinic will be available next Tuesday.

Twenty minutes from time Chuck McGill scored what was to be the killer punch. He took the ball on the half way line and headed on a diagonal run down the right side of the field. He brushed aside two challenges and continued his run to finally beat the keeper with a well placed shot. Thinking he was playing hockey, he immediately removed himself from the field after the goal. In effect he was hurt following his strong run and he limped from the field knowing that he had sacrificed his body for the team. What a player! 5-1.

Martin Chipperfield completed the rout five minutes from time when a loose ball fell to his feet and he drilled a fine shot into the bottom corner of the net. It was only Chipperfield’s second goal in his 64th. appearance for the club. Many players should have had goals and many chances went begging. Cook had a glorious chance with only the goalkeeper to beat but he fluffed his effort. Special mention should be given to all the unsung heros who don’t get the goals, or warrent special mentions for clearing off the line, or making that decisive challenge to keep the score even. We all know who they are and should feel indebted to them as they are an integral part of this team. They are the heart and soul of this success and although they don’t get the recognition, they are much appreciated.

Stats:

MWG: B. Ranger
"You Were Crap" award: D. Smith