Not a Bridge too Far for Kettering

A crisp, sunny day and a lunchtime start proved the ideal setting as Kettering Over 50s began their Tier 3 Cup campaign with a hard fought victory over West Bridgford. The hosts were down to a bare eleven with a late injury to inspirational skipper Tony Heath but took everything that West Bridgford could throw at the to secure a narrow victory.
Kettering started very brightly and forced a number of short corners but Nick Cusk was unable to convert. Bridgford grew into the game and chances were few and far between but the visitors had the better of the goalmouth action. Super Veteran Bill Greenwood saw yellow for a deliberate foot stopping a break away but Kettering held firm.
The second half followed a similar pattern, Cusk and Paul Brooker both taking two minute 'breathers' but the game hinged on a penalty award following an uncomplicated Richard Middleton tackle. The West Bridgford skipper saw his penalty saved by keeper Barry Coe and this rallied Kettering. They survived another scare when Coe was adjudged to have fouled a forward and another penalty was awarded but this was down graded to a penalty corner after a prolonged discussion.
Kettering seized this lifeline and with seven minutes to go Brooker fired the ball in following a rebound and Kettering ride out the remainder of the match to seal the victory. They now advance into round 2 after Christmas.