It was a tough game last Saturday for Sporting up in Leicestershire against a Barwell team who were full of confidence after some recent good results writes Iain Queen.

It was the visitors though who started well and dominated the game in the early stages with Dan Sweeney putting the ball in the net in the first minute only to see the assistant referee's flag go up for offside. Moments later Sweeney had a good effort saved as did Ammar Dyer. However it was the home side who took the lead with their first effort on goal in the 10th minute following good work on the right hand side by their exciting winger Beck-Ray Enoru, who beat his man before crossing to team captain and club legend Brady Hickey who headed home.

Soon after Brandon Smalley came close for the Rouslers and Barwell could have doubled their lead but for a great save by Ollie Taylor.

Then on 23 minutes, the game changed following a sending off for the Barwell defender Sidney Kerr who took Sweeney down when he was through on goal; somewhat harsh but referee Mr Williams made the right decision in applying the rules.

Four minutes later, Sporting were awarded a penalty when Sweeney nicked the ball from behind defender Melis Bushaj and was bought down. The reliable striker calmly slotted home the penalty sending the keeper the wrong way and making the score line one-all. Sweeney could have given his team the lead a couple of minutes later but his overhead kick went narrowly wide.

For the second half, Barwell set up a defensive 4-4-1 with the impressive Enoru causing all sorts of problem for the Bromsgrove defence. At the other end of the pitch, despite having a lot of the ball Sporting were unable to break down a resolute and well-organised defence. Barwell probably had the best chance of the second half and should have gone 2-1 up after Bushaj blazed over from 6 yards out.

There were lots of positives for the Rouslers. It was another point on the board and recent recruitment has so far been very good. Kai Lissimore looks like a real prospect and Brandon Smalley always wants to get on the ball and play it forward. Mo Njie is also building up his fitness and will be a big asset as the season progresses.

Report submitted by Bromsgrove Sporting