A frustrating day

6 core starters unavailable and with only 11 players, it was always going to be a challenging away day at Folkestone. The team talk centred on retaining the ball, especially higher up the pitch and ensuring the game did not turn into one of turnovers and too much up and down running. We started well and created numerous circle penetrations. Simon Hare was a calming influence at centre half and we moved the ball very well from the back to the opposing 25. What was head scratching is that we went into half time 2-0 down. We conceded 3 corners and they scored 2 of them, one after a breakdown led to a good shot from the right and one from a flick after it hit a body on the line.
In comparison, we did not force enough shots and when we did, we seemed to hit their GK with alarming regularity. The second half was a much worse affair as we were architects of our own downfall. Poor passes, a horrendous level of turnovers through taking the ball into contact and tiredness led to us conceding 2 more goals for a 4-0 scoreline. Cameron Green scored 2 to make the scoreline more flattering and reflected the fact that we never gave up.
A hugely frustrating day as other results went our way and if we had won we would have been 1 point from top. However, onwards & upwards, we will have our squad strengthened post Christmas and no side has thoroughly out-played us to date. Still lots to play for in the second half...