Craig’s double delight
Last updated 11:23, Wednesday, 19 November 2008
ACRAIG Ridleydouble boosted Alstonto a 4-2 victory overclose opponentsPenrith.
Ridley had the first clear-cut opportunity of the game, when he was put through on goal after a neat flick-on from a throw-in.
However, Penrith had keeper Scott Lancaster to thank, as he tipped Ridley’s low, drilled effort onto the post.
Moments later, Alston went close again when a deflected shot found its way past the on-rushing Lancaster, but Penrith’s Daniel Awde sprinted back to clear off the line.
Despite Penrith’s best efforts to keep the game level, Alston were knocking on the door, and it was only a matter of time until the deadlock would be broken.
Ross Thompson spotted Lancaster off his line, and with one thing in mind, expertedly lofted the ball over the keeper, to give the away side a 1-0 lead.
Alex Jackson, leading Penrith’s frontline, kept reminding Alston of his presence, threatening the defence and winning numerous free-kicks.
Penrith found the perfect reply, through an outstanding solo effort by Jordan Crawford.
The right-winger silkily weaved his way down the flank, before cutting in and arrowing a shot into the top corner.
Penrith had a number of good chances to go ahead, but Chris Sinclair’s sublime shot-stopping ability for Alston provided a firm barrier.
The partnership of Craig Ridley and Nathan Frazer upfront for Alston proved influential, as they combined to give Alston a 2-1 lead. Frazer crossed from the left, where Ridley put his foot on the ball and confidently opened up his body to place his shot into the bottom corner.
Yet, Penrith showed great spirit when they came from behind again. Chris Sinclair saved well from a Crawford shot, with the rebound falling kindly for Alex Jackson who hit a 20-yard effort into a gaping net.
The second-half began with Alston’s Aaron Collier tapping into an open net, with the previous shot rebounding off the post. Unfortunately, the high tempo wasn’t sustained, and the game became a midfield battle, as both teams’ fitness seemed to be greatly affected by the ice-cold conditions.
Jordan Norris, Alston’s centre midfielder, played his role perfectly, constantly running between the two boxes, keeping posession as well as producing vital tackles to break down attacks. Penrith never got going after half-time, and Alston pounced on this opportunity, adding another to take the game to 4-2.
Steven Hunter, who was by far Penrith’s player of the match, made a rare error in misguiding a pass. Ridley, using his pace, snatched the ball and slotted home, doubling his tally for the game.
Alston manager Norman Curreh said: “Both teams played the game to a high standard, with Jordan Norris shining for us in the centre of the park. This encounter was a credit to the Penrith and District League, as both sides showed good sportsmanship.”
