Edson edges it for Alty with second-half winner
Altrincham Reserves 1 Eagle Sports 0
Match report by Tom Killen Talbot
The game started with Altrincham controlling the majority of the ball and staying patient, though not many chances were created by either side.
Eagle slowly grew into the game the more the first half went on. They created a few minor chances and gained more possession of the ball but were unlucky to experience two injury setbacks which saw them have to make two changes in the first half.
The pattern continued, with the half finishing goalless after both sides had spells of dominance without managing to capitalise on their chances.
The second half began way more open than the first, but, though Alty managed to create more opportunities, the game became scrappier. Eagle saw more chances too as the ball was turning over lots more in the second period.
The Robins were pressing high and using their energetic style well, but Eagle had solutions and found their own ways to attack by putting balls into the channels and dangerous areas which were troubling Altrincham.
In the end, both sides made changes and the game blew wide open, with chances flying in left, right and centre in a match that could have gone either way.
The one that counted came after a great decision by the referee to let play go on, as Alty launched a promising counter-attack. Edson Cata drove at the defenders and saw a gap before driving a shot that nestled into the bottom left corner to give his side victory.
Eagle played their part in a good match, giving it their best and performing really well, but it's fair to say the Robins ran out worthy winners.