22/10/2024
Still Men 2 - 4 Boca Northants
On a rainy Sunday morning at The Racecourse, Boca Northants delivered an impressive performance, overcoming Still Men 4-2 in a feisty encounter that showcased their resilience and attacking prowess. This match was not just about points; it was a response to Still Menโs attempts to report Boca for allegedly fielding ineligible players, a false claim that fueled Bocaโs determination.
Boca struck first when Lewis Chant displayed remarkable skill, weaving past multiple defenders before laying the ball off for Archie Chorlton, who tapped in his third goal of the season. The visitors maintained control, with Aaron Ashley and Alex Barlow-Doran dominant in defence, supported by the resolute Jack Beck. Boca's attacking movements consistently troubled Still Menโs defense.
A controversial moment arose when Nathan Gritten was brought down by the Still Men keeper during a one-on-one, but the referee only issued a yellow card, citing a covering defender. Boca nearly capitalized on the momentum, with Chant's free kick narrowly missing the target.
The second goal came shortly after, as Chant and Iain Edmunds pressured the Still Men midfield, leading to a turnover. Chant found Gritten, who calmly slotted home, making it 2-0. This marked Grittens 4th goal in 5 games.
Boca continued to apply pressure, and Chorlton was denied a clear scoring opportunity by a reckless scissor tackle from defender Daniel Ingram, who escaped a red card. .
Then came the wonder goal. It arrived with a stunning goal from Chant. An inch-perfect cross from Edmunds set up Chant for a spectacular bicycle kick from the edge of the box, sending the ball into the top cornerโarguably the finest goal ever witnessed at The Racecourse, pushing the score to 3-0. Chant with his 9th goal in 7 games.
At halftime, Boca remained in control and made a tactical substitution, bringing Joe Walter on for Matty Smithson. The change paid dividends almost immediately; Walterโs pressing led to a swift move that culminated in Elliott Pittam rifling a left-footed strike into the top corner from the edge of the area, stretching Bocaโs lead to 4-0. Ells first ever goal for Boca. Congrats Ells.
However, the refereeโs decisions began to favor Still Men as he awarded a dubious penalty for handball, which Boca keeper Cam Scott heroically saved. After a controversial retake due to alleged encroachment, Still Men found the net, bringing the score to 4-1.
Despite the scoreline, Boca continued to dominate, creating numerous chances and enjoying their football. Matty Smithson, who had played a versatile role throughout the match, even transitioned to center-back, completing his own personal Boca bingo. Only Captain Jamie Luis Ford has completed this do date, Congratulations Matty!
In the closing moments, Still Men managed a second goal after Boca swapped every outfield player but the final score of 4-2 flattered Still Men. Boca's commanding performance, especially from players like Iain Edmunds, who earned Man of the Match honors, demonstrated their excellent mentality and cohesive team spirit.
Overall, Boca Northants showcased their attacking flair and resilience, leaving their fans and players delighted and looking forward to their next fixture.
Away (at Lings) against familiar and friendly foes Northants All Stars FC Res.
Thank you to Barratts Northampton for putting on food for us after the game and our sponsor Elite Sports Promotions
