Marston Road Tuesday, September 7th, 2021 k/o 19:45   FA Cup First Qualifying Round Replay Attendance: 630       Stafford Rangers 0-2 Rushall Olympic
2021 /22

Comments :

Narrowed down games to four choices the others at Lancaster, Kendal and Buxton. Halfway down the M6 passed signs saying two hour delays between j19 and j17 came off at J18 took detour but became apparent it was only effecting Northbound traffic at this point. Apparently it was a fatal accident involving two lorries and a car transporter. Tranmere connections on the Stafford team comprised of manager Matt Hill and goalkeeper Luke Pilling. £10 entrance +£2 extra for upgrade to the main stand. The game started brightly, Rushalls attackers looked to be faster than the home defenders whilst Stafford had a couple of long throw experts that sent balls well into the box. The game probably changed on a harsh penalty decision which Pilling was unlucky not to get to. Before the break Rushall should have had a legitimate one as Pilling was caught in possession on the byline and appeared to foul the attacker but the ref didn''t give it...maybe two wrongs make a right after all. The game became unattractive with lots of high long balls, toil and endeavour but not much action in the box. Stafford had plenty of corners but they were easily dealt with and only one twenty yard shot straight at the keeper. Rushall made meals out of almost all 50/50 challenges with their players staying down. Second half a poor clearance from Pilling was capitalised on and punished for 0-2 and a wicked bobble almost led to a repeat on a hard sandy surface. Probably the right result in the end. Played safe coming home taking the back roads home via Whitchurch.