Title-chasing Lamphey were the visitors at Manorbier last Saturday for the first meeting of the two local rivals this season. Apart from the blustery wind, the playing surface was perfect after the recent dry spell. Manorbier welcomed back Mike Ryder after a short spell over the ridgeway at St. Florence.
In the first half, Manorbier were playing into the strong wind which was to play a part in the game's proceedings. They started brightly and within five minutes came another 'goal of the season' contender from Dave Blackwell. Dave picked up the ball in midfield and ran with purpose at the Lamphey defence - which he sailed past and hit a swerving shot that was 'in from the moment it left his foot' from 20 yards.
Lamphey began to find their feet as they pinned Manorbier in their own half. They equalised after a fine long range effort which clattered the crossbar and fell to their forward who had a simple tap in to make it 1-1. Shortly after, a cross ball was met by a fantastic over-head kick that left 'keeper Carl Lewis with no chance. It was 2-1 to Lamphey.
Into the wind, Manorbier had several attacks, with Josh Hawkes and James Hall in fine form, but were unable to convert them into goals. It was the defensive duo of skipper Marv Protheroe and Liam Robson who kept Lamphey at bay for the rest of the first half to leave the score 2-1 to the visitors at half-time.
Manorbier felt confident going into the second half with the wind behind them. But the second half was not the best display from both teams where very few chances were carved out. The game was very stop-start throughout, and well refereed by Nigel Jenkins.
Deep into time added on, Manorbier equalised. A through ball to Paul Maytum led to a one-on-one with the 'keeper who was favourite to claim the ball. He was slow coming off his line, however, and Maytum went in for the challenge - the ball ricocheted off them both and Maytum stuck out a leg to push it into the net.
There were several protests from the Lamphey contingent who claimed the referee had played eight minutes of extra time, but there had been several stops in the second half. One minute extra was played, and the game ended at 2-2.
A good point for Manorbier who remain sixth in the table and maybe two dropped for Lamphey.
Team: Carl Lewis (8), John Squire (7), Robbie Thomas (7), Marv Protheroe (9), Liam Robson (9), Josh Hawkes (9), Mike Ryder (7), Dave Blackwell (9), Austyn John (6), James Hall (8), Paul Maytum (8) subs: Gavin Evans (7), Sam Ormond (7).
The match ball was kindly donated by G. Evans Carpentry & Building Services.
Tommorow (Saturday), Manorbier are at home to Lawrenny, 2.30 pm kick-off.
Manorbier United are also now seeking sponsorship for next season from local businesses - please contact club members for more details.
FOOTNOTE: All members of Manorbier United Football Club, past and present, would like to offer their gratitude and heartfelt thanks to 'Mr Manorbier United', Shay Nally, who has retired from being kitman after over 30 years. Shay has been with Manorbier through the good days of winning the Senior Cup and the first division in the '80s to the leaner trophy years of late. He will be sorely missed by all players and supporters and is wished well with his Saturdays off! Thank you Shay.