Coleshill Town 0 v 1 Solihull Town

[Alan Beckett]

Saturday 5th February 1972
Midland Combination Division Two
Coleshill Town 0 v 1 Solihull Town
Scorer: Watson.


Team: Pete Garnell GK, Paul Hannon, Oscar Deeming, Geoff Statham, Clive Lyons, Roger Coxall, John Bown, Eddie Hanlon, Bob Whillock (Eddie Hanlon), John Allen, Peter Quinn (debut).


CASTLE BROMWICH NEWS WROTE
Attack Needs More Punch
Coleshill must strengthen their attack if they are to lift any league honours this season. The case was never so apparent as it was on Saturday, when they created several chances but lacked decisive finishing power. Town brought in Peter Quinn for his first game since signing from Castle Bromwich and though he showed several good touches, found the heavy going was not to his liking. Solihull, prompted by Pat Fealey in midfield, stroked the ball around well and looked much the more impressive side. Coleshill began to wilt under constant pressure. Their passes were not being strung together and there was a lack of punch up front, where Bobby Whillock, returning to the side, looked very much out of touch. However, Oscar Deeming had another fine game and but for his determined efforts, Town might have been swamped. Slowly, Coleshill began to find their rhythm and forced three fruitless corners in quick succession. But Solihull bounced back and a great move brought them a deserved goal. Watson and Pink working a “one-two” with the former slotting home in the 42nd minute. After the interval Eddie Hanlon replaced Whillock and Coleshill recaptured some of their composure, with John Allen shining in midfield. The first quarter of an hour belonged to Coleshill, with Solihull’s goal leading a charmed life. Town almost levelled when Quinn was bundled over on the left flank. Geoff Statham struck a tremendous free kick which brought out a magnificent save from keeper Hewitt, who just managed to tip it over the bar. Allen continued his tireless efforts and after beating two players, saw a fine shot chested off the line. Coleshill maintained the pressure in very heavy conditions, with Hanlon beginning to make an impression on a sound Solihull defence. In the closing seconds, Phil Dunn had a chance to salvage a point, but stubbed his toe at the moment of truth and Hewitt saved easily. On reflection, an excellent game of football, despite the conditions. Coleshill played well at times, but Solihull were slightly the better side with balance and poise in all departments.


P18 W10 D5 L3 F27 A13 Pts25 Pos 5/28