Match Report- 01/03/09- v Linthwaite (Away)

Wyke Wanderers today matched their worst result of the season today, losing by 13 goals to nil against top of the league side Linthwaite.

Linthwaite put in a quality performance against Wyke. Wyke certainly didn’t play to their ability, but Linthwaite looked strong throughout the match and controlled most of the game.

Wyke were 7-0 at half time, and we defensively, very poor. Wyke made it easy for Linthwaite to score easy goals, by not marking up and poor clearances. Tai and Owen, in defence, were very shakey, and were struggling to handle the attacks of Linthwaite who were sending men forwards and outnumbering Wyke in their own box.

Wyke conceded a goal early on in the second half, but then started to play reasonably well. Connor became more involved, and made a couple of runs, but didn’t manage to get a shot in, also Scott had a couple of chances. Jake, who had had a quiet first half, also managed to create a couple of chances, but nothing to trouble the Linthwaite goal.

Linthwaite dominated the last 10 minutes and put in another 5 goals. The lads’ heads were now down, and as has been the story this season, they fell to pieces towards the end of the game.

Linthwaite scored 8 goals from headers, most coming from corners. Wyke will need to focus on winning the ball and challenging in the air if they are to improve their performances. Joe McLoughlin was put on in the first half at centre defence, to replace injured Owen, and had a good game, Joe didn’t stop running, and made some key interceptions which stopped Wyke conceding any more goals.

Man of the Match: Joe McLoughlin, Joe worked so hard today, in a position he doesn’t normally play, and without him the defeat could have been even worse.