Chogs pay the penalty (Chogs 1- Russell Vale 1)

A battling performance on Saturday once again saw us come away with less than we deserved. Due to injuries, holidays, cat burying sessions, overworked groins...we were down to a bare 12 for the game. (Apparently Andy is still en route to the ground). In some ways the lack of substitutes whilst making it tougher for everyone, may have helped us get into and keep a steady rhythm. We certainly finished the game stronger than Vale.

In a hard fought but fair game chances were at a premium. We went ahead early in the first half when Anthony managed to get his head on a cross from Sean that was going slightly behind him. It was a fine finish to a good move.

Unfortunately the lead didn't last too long as Vales tricky number 8 worked some space for himself and curled a fine shot (possibly aided by the wind) into the far corner. There probably wasn't a lot we could have done about that one.

Once again chances came and went, but to be fair we didn't really put their keeper under too much pressure.

Late on came the defining moment of the game (and possibly, although hopefully not, the season). Graeme Duncan went on a steaming run into the box and was *ruthlessly* brought down. The ref probably had little option to send the Vale player off. Whilst the sending off and the booking count (hatchet man Matt picking up a consecutive yellow card for walking backwards too slowly) may have given the impression it was a dirty game, unlike last weeks game it was a clean match played in good spirit.

With me off the pitch (probably thankfully else I may have been writing about myself here) Anthony stepped forward to take the penalty kick and win us the game. Unfortunately he chose that moment to hit probably his worst shot of the season, scuffing the ball towards their keeper. Vale's shouts of elation were rapidly drowned out as the ref ordered the kick to be re-taken for encroachment. The second attempt was hit better, but alas sailed over the bar. S*** happens - kudos for stepping up to take it in the first place.

Even then, against 10 men we had chances to win it, Vale clearing one off the line from a back-heel and Sean heading agonisingly over from a corner with virtually the last kick of the game. Dave went on a mazy run deep into Vale's half - (his pause to catch his breath was probably the only time he stopped barking out Sergeant-Major type orders throughout the match)

Two points dropped? Possibly, but with that commitment and spirit the season is a long way from over.