Blues forced to survive pressure (From Free Press Series)

Blues forced to survive pressure

Blaenavon Blues 3 v Rogerstone AFC 2

BLUES took the lead in the second minute of this Motors Challenge Cup tie but were then made to play second fiddle for most of the game by a very lively Rogerstone side.

Blues opened the scoring when Craig William's delightful through ball found Steve White in space, his far post cross was expertly converted by Darran Harris.

After a great run by Matthew Shearman, Neil Cox's near post cross was headed behind for a corner, from Cox's corner Matthew Cox headed over the bar.

The second half saw Rogerstone deservedly draw level. Ceri Evans hit the Blues bar and from the rebound Marcus Lear made a great save but was powerless to stop Mike Peck blasting the rebound home.

Rogerstone kept the pressure on the Blues and took command of the game, but for all their good approach play the elusive second goal would not come, when a goal did come it was to the Blues.

After good work on the left flank by Shearman, White found himself a yard of space in the penalty box and put his side back in front.

For the first time in the game Blues took control and with time running out Neil Cox made the game safe when he outpaced the defence and placed his shot low into the corner of the net.

With time running out Rogerstone pulled a goal back, when from a deep corner Ritchie Clayton headed home.