Ludlow 3–1 Shortwood
UHL Hellenic League Division One
Shortwood came away empty-handed from their trip to Ludlow on Saturday, despite controlling much of the second half and creating enough chances to win the game, writes Jim Cunneen.
Three goals conceded in the final 20 minutes proved costly, leaving Wood to reflect on another frustrating afternoon.
The first half was largely uneventful, with both sides guilty of poor passing in a scrappy 45 minutes. The only real chances came when Cronin’s cross-shot flashed across goal needing just a touch, and Bradshaw dragged a shot wide.
After the restart, Wood improved dramatically. Within two minutes Bradshaw was clean through, but his attempted chip was saved at the second attempt by home keeper Venables. Shortly afterwards, Venables miscued a clearance, Bradshaw seized on the loose ball and fed Cooke, whose shot was blocked by a desperate defender.
Shortwood finally broke the deadlock just before the hour mark. Awarded a free kick 25 yards out, Cooke rifled a stunning strike into the top corner to give the visitors a deserved lead. Bradshaw soon went close to doubling the advantage, as Wood pressed for a second.
But against the run of play, Ludlow levelled on 70 minutes when Jones glanced a header inside the far post. Wood responded well, with Venables twice denying Martin and Cooke, but Ludlow struck again in the 77th minute, Jones pouncing from close range after a free kick from the left.
Shortwood’s misfortune was compounded two minutes from time when Norman capitalised on a defensive mix-up, rounding keeper Wright after a missed clearance to roll the ball into an empty net and seal a 3–1 victory for Ludlow.
It was a harsh result on Shortwood, whose work rate could not be faulted, but the loss of Joe Williams to injury seemed to unsettle the side at a crucial stage. With confidence low, Wood will be looking to turn possession and chances into points as the season continues.
Shortwood: Wright, Williams (Royer), T. King (Cunningham-Sturmey), Martin (Mulraney), E. King, Colliver, Cronin (Muhid), Kent, Bradshaw, Cooke (Underwood), Gardner.
Goals: Cooke (58)
