STILL LOOKING FOR FIRST WIN IN 2008

Written by Peter Grimes

BURTON 4 v 1 VICS

A good first half from Vics that was, sadly, eclipsed by an improved second half performance by Burton.

The game started disastrously as Burton went ahead in only 90 seconds when full back Webster finally forced the ball over the line from 6 yards after a prolonged scramble in the Vics box. Tynan did well to save from Harrad soon after and Vics gradually settled and started to look more and more a threat. They were heartened by a shaky start from Burton keeper Poole whose handling in easy situations looked suspect. Welch fired a foot over on 7 minutes and Carr and Welch had further attempts on goal.

The game settled into a pattern where Vics had a good spell of possession and both teams looked suspect at the back but good going forward. However, neither keeper was seriously troubled as the final passes were not quite good enough. On 29 minutes Vics won another corner and another Welch shot was blocked and from the resulting clearance Vics fell victim to the classic breakaway goal. The ball was played up the left and then passed across the pitch to Harrad just inside his own half and he took it down the right and crossed for Corbett to finish clinically from within the box. It was rough justice on Vics who now looked the better team, but their response was immediate and within a minute it was 2-1. Burns carried the ball into the left side of the box and squeezed a lovely shot between the diving Poole and the far post. Vics looked like equalising and perhaps Akins should have when Horrocks pulled the ball back to him but the box was crowded and his reaction shot rolled harmlessly wide. Come half time and Burton probably were glad to have the break still leading.

A neutral would probably have been disappointed at Burton's first half showing, given their league position, and it was no surprise when they came out looking a much more positive side. The game was never really in doubt in the second half. Vics never really threatened and the Burton pressure continued to build. Vics defence continued to look a little slow and, perhaps, inexperienced and it was no surprise when the defensive shortcomings produced a goal. Farrell made the most of a Kerr mistake on the edge of the box, won the ball and squared it for Harrad and his weak shot saw Tynan make his only mistake when it squirmed under his body and rolled into the net. After that it was a formality and the fourth goal came off a corner when it was headed down and towards the far post by Simpson and Webster came in at the back to score from 2 yards. Burton
dominated until the end although Vics never gave up trying.

It would be a little unfair to be too critical given the strength of the opponents and the massive change in playing staff that will need time to settle. The good points were the attacking flair and speed of the forwards (Burns looks very promising) and the overall attempts of the team to play a passing game. Tynan looks a rock at the back despite his one mistake today. Of concern was the vulnerability of the defence and the inexperience of some players at this level, and some may struggle in the longer term. Vics need time, but that may
not be a luxury they have much of. A bit of good fortune would not go amiss either!!

Attendance: 2165
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STILL LOOKING FOR FIRST WIN IN 2008