Lilies’ second-string had opportunities to seal second league win of campaign

It was a case of what could have been for Chatteris Town Reserves, writes Dan Mason.

The Lilies’ second-string had their opportunities to confirm just a second league win of the campaign, but instead settled for a hard-earned point against unbeaten Eaton Socon Reserves in Mead Plant & Grab 1B on Saturday.

A solid defence was required to absorb relentless first-half pressure from Socon, Alan Moore finding the side-netting after good link-up play with fellow forward Luke Fox.

The hosts did survive a penalty claim just before the break following a sliding challenge before taking the lead from the spot themselves, arguably against the run of play, courtesy of Liam Birch on 53 minutes.

Perhaps the changing point was when substitute Ben Green failed to convert from point-blank range after a swift Town counter-attack, as straight afterwards, Kyle Morris tapped home from a pinpoint pass across the six-yard area.

Both teams managed to create late chances, Matt Walshe blazing over for Town while Fox’s misplaced header made sure it was honours even.

Chatteris Town Reserves boss, Sean McKay, said: “I thought it was always going to be a tough game.

“I was pleased with the point, although our second-half performance deserved more.

“I don’t think Eaton Socon had too many clear-cut chances and, as a unit, we defended pretty well.

“We got in the right areas and had some good shots, but unfortunately they weren’t or target so it wasn’t our day.”

McKay takes his Reserve Team to Whittlesey Athletic Reserves in the North Cambs Junior Cup this weekend (November 17, 1.45pm), as they look to continue their good run of form in knockout competition.

“At the start of the season, I said to the lads that I’d absolutely love to win a trophy for this football club and as we’ve been going so well in the cups, hopefully that will continue”, McKay said.

“Now we’ve got a consistent squad together, it is only going to be bigger and better things for us.

“Success is based on consistency and now we’ve got that, hopefully we can keep improving on a weekly basis.”