Market Drayton knew that Oswestry’s results so far this season didn’t reflect their dominance in the league below last season, and the visitors proved to be tough opposition in a competitive and entertaining encounter.
The game started at a good pace, with both teams looking to take control. However, after just nine minutes, a loose pass at the back fell to an Oswestry forward, who fired a reverse-stick shot into the net to give the visitors an early lead. Drayton responded positively, pushing high up the pitch and creating several good opportunities. Despite some excellent efforts on goal, the Oswestry goalkeeper proved difficult to beat, producing a number of impressive saves. Jordan Chevins came particularly close, with a strike that would have found the net in most games.
The pressure eventually paid off in the 14th minute when a rebound from a save fell to Matthew Kenvyn, who fired the ball high into the back of the net to bring Drayton level at 1–1.
Market Drayton continued to control much of the play and were rewarded in the 27th minute when a well-delivered cross found Jos Parsons, who finished confidently to put the home side ahead at 2–1.
Oswestry’s game plan was clear: get the ball to their centre forward and allow him to cause problems. Just a minute after Drayton’s goal, they did exactly that, with their forward breaking through the defence. A late challenge from goalkeeper Dave Poole resulted in a penalty flick, which was calmly converted to bring the scores level at 2–2.
Despite some good hockey from Drayton, there was little to separate the sides at half-time, with everything still to play for.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Market Drayton enjoying the majority of possession while Oswestry sat deep, committing ten players behind the ball and looking to release their centre forward on the counter-attack.
With the visitors crowding the D, breaking down their defence proved difficult, but Drayton continued to work patiently and look for an opening. Their persistence finally paid off in the 53rd minute when some neat passing opened up the Oswestry defence, putting Jordan Chevins through on goal to finish and restore Drayton’s lead at 3–2.
With the advantage secured, Market Drayton managed the game well, maintaining possession and limiting Oswestry’s opportunities to counter-attack. Despite creating further chances, they were unable to extend their lead before the final whistle.
It was a hard-fought victory against a determined Oswestry side, but Market Drayton showed the quality and persistence needed to get the job done. Jordan Chevins’ decisive second-half goal proved the difference, securing a valuable 3–2 win and all three points. While there is still room for improvement, Drayton can take confidence from their ability to respond to setbacks, create chances and see out a competitive game. Another three points on the board gives the team plenty to build on as the season continues.
