Almost kept a point

This week saw Prescot Cables playing at home to Salford City, a game postponed from February. Then there had been a couple of rumblings on Twitter that it was convenient that the game was off on the day of the Merseyside derby. The contrary was true, the derby match was in the evening, so we would have probably got a few extra spectators in the mood for a day's football, not to mention not having the expense of the floodlights. On the whole, the weather has been kind to us this season, with this being the first of only two midweek games at home this year, and the crowd was reasonably good for an evening game, at 187.

The spectators were joined by two of Salford's co-owners, Paul Scholes and Phil Neville (I think - I ought to take a "know your Nevilles" picture card to games against Salford), although the brief chant of "Neville Neville" to the tune of Rebel Rebel was incorrect, as I am fairly sure Phil and Gary's father was not present. They were, as they usually are, happy to chat to supporters, pose for pictures and sign autographs, and tweeted afterwards that they had enjoyed the game and the hospitality.

Their involvement also gives Salford access to funds we would all like to have at our disposal, and they have set a high priority on seeing results from their investment in the shape of promotion. Having suffered a heavy defeat when we visited Salford a few weeks ago, we were keen not to repeat the experience.

We have a young side, who have been capable of some excellent play, but, facing our second set of title challenging opponents in four days, we needed experience too, with Neil Prince joining James McCulloch and Joe Evans in midfield, and Liam Hollett in defence.

Neil Prince & James McCulloch

Liam Hollett

Joe Evans

We were active at both ends.

Jack Phillips

Since making his first start with the first team a few weeks ago, goalkeeper Ben Morrow has been mentioned a few times in these dispatches, and this game was no exception. He is making some good saves, and just as important, he projects a calm demeanour. He gained some good comments from the opposition supporters (many of whom are closer to the goal than anyone else), and won the Wallopers' Way man of the match poll.

Ben Morrow

Prescot had some chances, the best falling to Neil Prince, whose shot went over the bar, but had not been able to score. This was balanced by what looked as though it might be a clean sheet at the other end, until the last minute of normal time. James Edgar replaced Jack Phillips, who looked as though he had a bit of cramp, but more pertinently was a long way away from the bench. A substitution at this point is not without risk, and Salford were able to break through for the only goal, to wild celebrations from their bench.

The rest of the pictures from the game can be seen here.

Final score: Prescot Cables 0 Salford City 1.