MATCH REPORT - Rovers Outplay Fair Play

"Wee" Colin Kimbrell takes on a giant

A midweek victory for Rovers has put them within grasp, albeit temporarily, of top spot. The reds lined up against FairPlay FC knowing a win was essential in order to avoid losing touch with the top half of the table, and a depleted line-up obliged.

Rovers started brightly, and despite conceding an early goal, never looked to be under too much pressure. With free-scoring Norwegian Veggard Nordheim equalising, then putting Melchester ahead with his trademark clinical finishing, and Nathan Golban setting up top scorer Colin Kimbrell when Fair Play's 'keeper went walkabout, at half time there was already a feeling of "job done".

Early in the 2nd half Kimbrell made it 4-1, the perfect debut for his specially imported blue-suede boots, turning on a sixpence to volley home from the edge of the box - a move that even had the opposition forward showing his admiration.

From then on the hoops played a holding game, stand-in keeper Martin Mestanek producing some fine saves, even using his nose to keep FairPlay at bay, whilst defender Paul Holland also made full use of his body, using foot then belly to clear successive shots off the line.

Honest, it was a big bruise, its just the camera couldn't quite pick it up

For their part, Fair Play demonstrated a fine grasp of irony, refusing to return Melchester's loose balls during warm-up, and forgoing the customary (if slightly crap) pre-match handshakes. With needle before the game even started, this was a real blood-and-guts affair; Rovers' kind of game.

Roy Race revealed mixed emotions ahead of the next game, against Beers Utd. "Unfortunately, despite our excellent away record, our next game takes place at home, where we are yet to pick up a point. However, after a storming start to their campaign, Beers Utd have faded in recent games, so this is the best chance we'll get to break the jinx."

With only one other game taking place on Saturday, Melchester could actually go top (with one more game played) with a win over Beers Utd. Ha'way the lads!!!