Kirkby were champions of NSL Senior One last term with a record of played 22 won 22. They were promoted two divisions to NSL Premier One. Southbank Athletic (The Wolds) won Premier Two and were also promoted to Premier One.
Town Manager Andy Cruddace was a little apprehensive prior to kick off, but his fears never materialised as the home team ripped into the Athletic defence and were leading four nil after just 17 minutes of play!
KIERAN WATSON hit the first in the 6th minute, firing across the keeper from the corner of the box. TOM CRESSWELL doubled the score on 11, firing in from close range after a melee in the 6 yard area. CRESSWELL headed home superbly from Watson's cross after 14 minutes had been played, then KRISTIAN WATSON fired across the keeper into the far corner to make it four.
Southbank had their fair share of chances, and only some splendid goalkeeping from Steve Boot and some comical "finishing" saw the home team keep their sheet clean. KIERAN WATSON added the Town fifth on 23. H-T 5-0
CRESSWELL completed his personal treble within a few seconds of the restart, this time it was a screamer from 25 yards that the visiting keeper never saw until it was nestling in the back of the net.
FRAZER CAMPBELL tapped home the 7th after the Southbank keeper failed to hold onto a fierce drive, then sub LIAM PARDOW bundled home the 8th at the far stick - the goal allowed to stand despite the Assistant Referee waving for an offside during the build up. Referee David Haigue over-ruled the Assistant and the goal was allowed to stand.
Athletic then had a great chance to break their duck after Sean Lynk handled in the box and Mr. Haigue awarded the penalty. Unfortunately for Athletic, they found Boot unbeatable and the stopper dived well to keep out the no. 8's spot kick. To rub salt in, Kirkby cleared the ball up field to Keiran Watson who picked out brother KRISTIAN at the far stick, and he made no mistake from close range. F-T 9-0.
The scoreline was a little flattering to Kirkby - Steve Boot made half-a-dozen great saves and there were a couple goal-line clearances as well as terrific 30 yarder that crashed off the bar. Could have been 12-10 on another day!!!
Looking forward to 15th December when the two will go head to head in the league......
Looking forward to 15th December when the two will go head to head in the league......
