Narrow loss to 10 man Ely.

Kettering 4's traveled to Ely for their final delayed match of the season. A good squad of 14 made the trip to the patchwork quilt that Ely call a pitch to find that they could only scrape together a team of 10 players. After being let down by their keeper, one of whom had to go and find some kit to act as stand in.

4's started strongly, trying to pass the ball around to make the 9 outfield players of Ely get caught out of position. This was working well with both Full backs pushing forward to create attacking options. However, the final ball into the D just wasn't good enough to create much in the way of chances. A couple of scuffed shots were easily dealt with by the opposition keeper. Ely however, where counter attacking with purpose exploiting their greater experience in midfield and up front. Numerous chances were created but either their forward players put the ball wide or the defenders cleared the ball. Alistair also made a couple of cracking saves to keep Kettering in the game. One of which was saved low to his left by using his glove to deflect the ball wide.

The second was played out in much the same fashion. Kettering pressuring Ely and forcing a number of short corners. These created the closest chances of the game. Firstly, Tim McDowell produced a drag flick which agonisingly hit the side netting. Then, after a melee in front of the goal, Tom Storey managed to get a reverse stick on the ball to hit the bottom of the post. With around 10 minutes to go Ely had another short corner which after initially being saved and cleared, the ball was taken back in the D for it to be lost in the defence. The Ely players reacted quickly to stab the ball home. Despite their best efforts Kettering just couldn't reply and after the final whistle they left the field with the feeling that points had been lost.

All of the players deserved a mention for the performance they produced- nobody stood out to be man of the match so the award goes to them all.

4's finished the season in a creditable 9th place for their inaugural season. Improved performances towards the end of season bodes well for next year. All of the players will improve and the younger ones will become stronger as match players. A tighter defence and a few more goals will make the world of difference. Mid table is within reach.