BBFC Men's Match Report - 13th Feb 2022

After a lost week due to bad weather the Bisons resumed league proceedings with an away match at Ashridge Park Sunday. Despite the bad weather in recent weeks the pitch looked in good condition but the main challenge was going to be the very strong wind blowing straight down the pitch. The Bisons played the first half attacking into the wind and were caught cold early on as a long goal kick aided by the wind bounced kindly for the striker to convert into the far corner.

Despite the pitch looking good the ball was not running true and players were struggling to move the ball cleanly and with Ashridge closing down quickly it was difficult for the Bisons to get any real momentum in their game. Chances for both sides were few but the Bisons had a chance when Kev and Kiran combined to set up Ben whose well struck shot passed narrowly over the bar. Kiran then had a half-chance, cutting in from the right but his shot also cleared the bar. Aside from the goal Ashridge were not troubling the Bison defence that had Elliot covering for Jack who was unavailable. With half time looming the Bisons lost Duncan to injury and a further change was required in defence as Elliot was only available for the first half.

As expected the Bisons had more of the ball in the second half kicking with the wind but they struggled to use the increased possession to good effect and the Ashridge ‘keeper was not called in to make a meaningful save throughout the match. That said Harry also saw little action with only a few long throws to deal with. Ashridge were well drilled and made it difficult for the Bisons but three free kicks in good positions just outside the box were wasted with the keeper not being called to make a save on each occasion. Dylan was also lost to injury and with time running out and little pressure on the back four the Bisons changed to 4-4-2, a formation not used all season, in an attempt to find the elusive equaliser. As is quite typical when chasing a game a breakaway by Ashridge with minutes remaining resulted in a second well taken goal.

A disappointing result for the Bisons in really difficult conditions but the team never really clicked into gear from the outset and were unable to fashion a clear shooting opportunity to test the opposition keeper. Of all the players Kyifer seemed most comfortable on the ball and looked most likely to unlock the defence but credit to Ashridge who stood firm throughout. A bad day at the office but we move on.