Launceston Football Club

02/09/17 SWPL Newquay 0-1 Launceston

Gary was forced to make five changes to his starting line-up as the Clarets looked to build on Wednesday's thrilling 3-3 draw at Tavistock when the team travelled to Newquay on Saturday.

 

Cory Harvey replaced Ollie in goal, while Josh McCabe, Dan Metherall, Ruben Kane and Liam Prynn were all unavailable. Ryan Tetley, Liam Tilley, Chris Head and debutant Sam Watts came in, demonstrating the strength of this season’s squad. Charlie Hardcastle made an earlier return from injury than expected and took his place alongside Reece Thompson and Mike Steele on a bench high in quality if understandably short on numbers!

 

The Tavistock game had featured some outstanding passing football from both sides, but Saturday's game at a windy Mount Wise was a battle. Newquay, much improved following last season's relegation battle, opted for a direct approach while Launceston tried to get the ball down and play through midfield.

 

The opening exchanges were fairly even, but the Clarets gradually took control without forging many clear chances. The game's pivotal moment came after 35 minutes when a superb passing movement down the right, featuring Jack Alexander and Sam Watts, set Callum Thompson in on goal. Somehow keeping his feet as challenges flew in from both sides, Callum showed great composure to round keeper Zak Roberts and, from an acute angle, roll the ball into an empty net. It was a brilliant goal, out of keeping with much of what had gone before.

 

Home full-back Jack Scott was booked for a bad foul on Sam Davey but the Clarets were unable to add to their lead before half-time.

 

Newquay, defending a 100% home record, including 5-1 wins over both Camelford and Helston, stepped up a gear after the break and forced the Clarets back, although Gary’s side still looked dangerous on the break. This was demonstrated after 57 minutes when Callum Thompson broke clear only to be scythed down by Shaun Middleton for a clear penalty. However Roberts made a good stop low to his right from Sam Davey's spot-kick.

 

Cory made a superb diving save from a 75th minute header with Lee Rundle completing the clearance, as Newquay pushed Dan O’Hagan up front and stepped up the pressure. But Launceston played out time without too many alarms as Gary utilised his bench, introducing Mike, Charlie and Reece to keep things fresh. Charlie’s appearance, returning from injury, was not a success as he managed only eight minutes before retiring hurt. Hopefully not too serious.

 

This was another fine win for the Clarets, with both Callums superb in midfield. Special mentions to Jack Alexander and Sam Watts, both of whom played out of position but contributed in full to a great team effort. Cory’s distribution - quick, long and accurate - also greatly helped in keeping Newquay pinned back.

 

The win lifts the team to 4th place in the SWPL table and nicely sets up Wednesday's game at old rivals Bodmin, impressive winners of their FA Cup-tie at Horndean on Saturday.