During the past couple of weeks Chairman Paul Prendergast and Vice Chair Matt Putland along with around 20 CTSA members have been putting together a football team to face Stevenage fans last Saturday. After three training sessions the big match kicked off at 11 am on the G3 astro pitch.

Within minutes it was clear that CTSA could play a bit as away regular, Callum Murray, scored the 1st goal. He said afterwards, “Mitch made a great pass through the middle and I calmly slotted home.”  Stevenage got going and scored 3 goals themselves but showing real grit CTSA hit back, drawing level on the stroke of half time after another Callum special and one from Michael Cook. The mood in the home dressing room was pretty hyped.  Manager Paul said, “you are playing superbly, the back four look solid and the midfield are doing well, I think Stevenage are getting tired and we could nick this.”

The 2nd half turned into midfield battle with both sides getting stuck in. As the half wore on the away team looked to be holding all the cards and made some telling moves down either flank. Goal keeper Dan Palmer made an excellent save diving to his left to flick a fierce drive over the bar. However with just minutes to go man of the match Ashley Comper hurled over a long throw which his brother Joe headed in at the back stick. Cue wild celebrations (the whole thing can be seen on youtube). Unfortunately we couldn’t hold out as they came back with a sickening last gasp equaliser.

All the lads can be very proud of producing an entertaining game of football. The Stevenage manager said, “Crawley should be pleased with that, if they were to play in the league they would cause a lot of problems.” Prendergast said, “a massive well done to the team, we have only been formed for two weeks and have held a decent team here today, we have sown a seed which hopefully can grow into something special.”  He added, “thanks to Ken Blackmore for officiating and also to Matt Putland for all his hard work on this venture.”

The CTSA football team is another example of how the Supporters Alliance is bringing new and exciting adventures to its members and local community. The plan is to organise another match this season and then have regular training sessions and games next season. If you would like to get involved please mail Matt Putland on mattputland@hotmail.co.uk

Team

Words and Pictures from Colin Bowman, CTSA Matchday and Event Press