Otley Town 0 Field FC 5

THE scoreline suggests a drubbing for Otley Town but the home dressing room was far from ‘down’ after the game.

The players felt they had played their part in a good cup-tie and the best team had won but the result might have been all so different but for a major turning point mid-way through the second half.

Town started with a formation which was meant to nullify the counter-attacking capabilities of Field but it was blown out of the water in the first 20 minutes when the visitors scored two goals – the second of which would have graced the professional game never mind Step Seven.

Credit to the Otley players – the rest of the first half was a more even affair, with Town’s game management steadying the ship. Had one of the three half-chances created been converted, it might at least have undermined the league leaders’ prowess.

The only other incident of note, leading up to the break was the up-ending of Scott Firth right on the edge of the box when he was in a threatening position.

The ‘word’ that the ref had with the offender seemed wholly inappropriate, particularly as five minutes later he brandished a yellow card to Dan Chadwick in an identical incident at the other end.

Town came out for the second half with renewed intent, laying siege to the Field goal.

What they were not to reckon with was the quality of the visiting keeper Tom Metcalfe. He saved everything thrown at him.

Town continued to press but the goal just would not come. Then midway through the half came the five-minute period which would determine the final outcome.

First Scott Firth was harshly booked for encroaching at a Field free-kick.

Minutes later he was given a second yellow for a foul similar to those committed by both sides throughout the afternoon without punishment.

To add insult to injury – as Town were trying to reorganise – Field scored a good third goal.

The game was now up for Town and, making full use of the numerical advantage, Field scored two quality late goals to earn them a scoreline which slightly flattered them.

After the game it was interesting to hear one of the Field faithful remark that it was easily their best performance of the season.

Unfortunately no consolation for Otley Town, who must now try to play well and gain as many wins as possible with a view to next season.