21 January 2007
Friendly
Home (Southglade Leisure Centre)

The one that got away perhaps? Ballbois created sufficient opportunities without nailing this game stone-dead.

Making their debut on astroturf and in a spanking new kit they produced their best first half showing. Jim H, captain for the day on his farewell appearance, was dominant in an organised back four whilst Jeff hit two screamers just over the bar.

Positive vibes were aplenty. Titans came closest to scoring though when a rebound off the cross bar bounced tantalisingly on the line. The games pivotal moment occurred after fifty minutes when another penalty went against the Ballbois.

Titans now took the initiative and worked a neat move within minutes to double their lead. Nottingham were now spurred into action and dominated for ten minutes or so which culminated in debutant Sam scoring. The pressure was now on but Titans (on a four game winning streak) held firm and that pressure was somewhat alleviated when Brett went off injured.

With the clock ticking down a breakaway goal saw the Titans seal it but even then Sam N replied for his second of the afternoon. These lads just never give in and the Titans knew they had been in a game.

In a way the Ballbois deserved a result here but they lacked the cutting edge where it mattered most. Fine debut performances from Sam N and Paul B supplemented Tony's assured keeping and Jeff's strength in midfield, whilst Jim had a stormer and will be missed. So the supporters (who by the way were magnificently noisy) witnessed a thoroughly enjoyable match between two very even and committed sides.

Team: Tony L, Gareth D, Tom M, Jim H, John S, Jeff N, Sam N, Dave O, Paul B, Brett L and Chris L
Subs: Phil P, Kev F, Phil H, Scott L
Goals: Sam N (2)