Buntingford Cougars 2:0 Thaxted Rangers Yellows

The first game of the new season saw the Yellows lose 2-0 in this cup fixture. Apart from two minutes of madness immediately following the half-time interval, however, during which both goals were conceded, this was a very evenly balanced match, despite the Cougars being from the division above.

Whilst both sides looked less than 100% fit after the summer break, there application and skill levels were identical, with neither able to create any sustained pressure on the opponent’s goal.

The Yellows came closest to taking the lead in the first half when Jacob hit the crossbar after 22 minutes, Ed’s free kick shortly after was just wide of the left-hand post and Zach’s shot went straight to the blues’ keeper.

New-signing Ethan showed promise in the first period, too, keeping the home team’s defenders busy around the 18 yard box. Cole, also playing his first game, showed a steely determination in defence that bodes well for his future as a replacement for Yellows’ stalwart Evan.

Although the game was by no means a bad-tempered affair, a handful of yellow cards were awarded by the referee, including one each for Ellis and Christian, plus a sin-bin session for dissent.