Linslade Galaxy Spartak made the journey over to Barton-le-Clay to take on Barton Rovers U-14 Whites in a re-scheduled 3rd Beds County Cup match. Unlike last week’s weather conditions when the fixture was originally supposed to have been played, today’s playing conditions were ideal for both teams on this crisp December morning.

Spartak knew this fixture was not going to be easy with Thomas, Caelan, Theo and Elliot all unavailable. With Spartak’s recognised keepers out, Tycho duly stepped up for goal keeping duties and what a game he had!

The first period was very much a half of missed chances for both teams. Linslade struggled to find their passing game on the narrow pitch and had numerous chances to take the lead with Dylan, Luke and Matthew all going close and it was starting to look like one of the days when the ball would not go over the line no matter what. Barton were also guilty of missing some early chances. The home team though were winning the 50/50 balls and broke the deadlock through a long throw into the box with Linslade failing to clear their lines. Coach Steve could see Barton’s centre forward was their main dangerman and made a swift formation change, moving Jack J to centre back to stifle his pacey runs. This change brought Linslade more into the match and a neat run down the left wing from Charlie found Matthew on the right to slot home from close range bringing the score level at half time with literally the last kick of the first half.

Half Time Barton Rovers 1-1 Spartak

Linslade started the second half in the ascendancy and an early second half penalty was slotted home by Mattew, following a slightly harsh handball decision given against the Barton defender. Spartak began to dominate the game more but there always remained the threat from a Barton set piece. It was from a second long throw into the box that the home side drew level again.
As the game approached the final 20 mins both teams went looking for the winner. A defence-splitting pass from Charlie released Jack R down the right who neatly crossed in for Mali to fire home and for Spartak to take the lead 2-3. The match always had the feeling it could go all the way to penalties, and this was indeed the case. A further spot kick converted by Barton in the last 10 mins drew the sides level again and the match headed to penalties to decide the winner.

Despite the pressure of a penalty shoot-out, Spartak’s spot kick takers Mathew, Joe and Luke all calmly slotted home their strikes perfectly. However, Barton found Tycho in amazing form pulling off two fantastic saves and forcing a miss for Linslade to win on penalties 3-0 and reach the 4th round of the County Cup. Coaches Steve, Matt and Nick were immensely proud of all the boys showing grit and determination to come out on top against a tough physical Barton Rovers team.

It was though Jack J at the heart of defence and Tycho in goal who received special mentions after both players put in outstanding performances to keep Spartak in the hunt for cup success. Well done both!