An absence of two weeks due to waterlogged pitches (albeit called off without this referee's pitch inspection). The enforced layoff gave me a chance to do some intensive training to build up stamina for the heavier pitches and colder weather. Those of you in attendance at this week's match may have noticed the effect of this graft. No? Surely, the way I retained my composure when slipping in the mud, or the agility I displayed when the ball hit me in the second half and I narrowly avoided injury by a deft dip to the left. Did you not notice?
We had our heaviest pitch of the season thanks to Macc Town electing to train on our pitch the day before in very wet conditions. I reckon had the surface been at Moss Rose or Old Trafford, the game would have been called off, but it was testament to the determination of the lads (and lass) to get back out on the field after the lay- off that they shrugged off the muddy, slippy surface to pass the ball around as if it was astro-turf in the summer. I was the only one struggling to stay vertical - a shortened gait this week!
I'm again really impressed with the application of the rules again this week. throw in's spot on. One player on each team was a little over zealous in tackles which required a word, we had a couple of hand balls, one for each team which were easy to call (helps being up with Play - please note FIFA refs) and just a single lace tie incident across the entire 40 minutes!
I gave one throw in which was greeted by my Son's disbelief, he continued to tell me I'd got it in wrong in the car on the way home! I continue to assure him, I always make what I belive to be the correct decision, but equally know it's impossible to get it right every time.
A hard earned 1-1 draw left me short of breath as once again both teams attacked with flair and pace throughout. Thorougly enjoyable to be a part of the game - I would urge all readers of this blog to give it a go at some point over the season. Don't take too long to try, we'll have 'badged' officials before you know it in coming seasons and you don't want to go through life without experiencing the joys of blowing the final whistle, or having 30 Parents nod either approvingly or quite often disapprovingly at your efforts! - go on, give it a try - I'll even post your reflections on the blog.
Full time. Your man in Black. (Sponsored by Pirelli Tyres)
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