Thwaites win epic encounter!

Thwaites FC defeated staunch rivals Craven VII last night to go joint top of the table on 9 points. The game finished 3-2 in a rip-roaring encounter marred with three sendings off. The brewery team bombarded the Craven goal and if it was not for the heroics of the opposition keeper it could have been double figures in a marvellous performance. However, things started badly for Thwaites when Craven took an early lead through a goal keeping blunder from Martin Slater. However, the lead was short-lived when Simon Tipton scored an excellent goal after weaving through the defence. Craven then went 2-1 with a fine strike much to the disbelief of Thwaites who had most of the possession and most of the chances. Midfield maestro Jamie Hopwood came on for Carl Elmer just before the break and he again put in a dazzling display and should have scored after turning the Craven defence inside out. Early on in the second half Dominic Southworth, playing outfield against doctor's orders due to his toe injury equalised to make the scores 2-2. With Mark Slater and Simon Tipton constantly teasing the Craven defence and a strong back line for Thwaites it was only a matter of time before Thwaites scored and midway through the second half they did when Southworth scored to make it 3-2. The game then turned nasty as Craven lost their tempers which led two dismissals - one for violent conduct and the other for dissent. Thwaites midfielder Carl Elmer also found himself on the receiving end of another bad decision from the match referee as he was also shown red. Thwaites will be delighted with this result - beating their most bitter rivals and continuing their great form in the five-a-side league. They are surprising everyone around them with their current league position and could well be this seasons dark horses to win the championship. Slater 8 - A solid performance despite blunder for first goal Tabbinor 8 - A good performance. Would have got a higher mark if he had managed to stay on the remainder of the game and not got injured. Elmer 8 - Had a good game. However, needs to sort his discipline out as he was again sent off. Slater 9 - Teased the Craven defence which led to them losing their tempers. Good to see him return from his caravanning tour. Gave Thwaites another dimension going forward. *Tipton 10 - Another class performance from the Salford-born midfielder. Scored a great goal. Man-of-the-match. Southworth 9 - Scored 2 goals - just what he deserved after a tireless performance. Hopwood 8 - His recent displays will encourage managers Gary Targett and Carl Elmer. Great passing and closed the Craven midfield down well. Tormay 3 - His devotion to Thwaites has a lot to be desired. He went at half-time to play for another team. An appalling attitude. The brewery team take on Acme on Sunday and will be looking for a good result to dismiss any relegation fears currently hanging over them. in the seven-a-side league despite their impressive start. Thwaites defender Damian Tabbinor looks set to be fit for Sunday's clash despite going off with an ankle injury last night. However, Dominic Southworth will be missing as he goes under the surgeons knife in a bid to cure his toe injury which is plaguing his season. (Pictured 2 goal hero Southworth, who's out of Sundays Clash.)