A weakened Old Alleynians team put in a below-par performance in Dudley against Gornal Athletic on 21st September and fell to their second successive defeat.
The Old Alleynians started off on the offensive for the first 15 minutes but failed to capitalise on their superiority. The closest they came to scoring was a good run and cross by Sam Hodgkinson which was just too high for Danny Heard, who could only guide the ball over the top.
Then a good through-ball from Carl Dibden was blocked by the out-rushing Skyers in the home goal. The ball found Heard but his goal-bound shot was deflected for a corner.
A good Cameron Sinclair tackle broke down a dangerous Gornal attack before two good saves from Adam Heath kept out the hosts as they gradually swung the momentum in their favour. Only a mixture of good goalkeeping, stout defending and a slice of good luck kept the score goalless at the break.
There was to be no respite for the visitors as the Athletic continued to have the upper hand and soon took the lead through Cox. Another goal midway through the half from Warner finally brought the visitors to life as they tried to regain the initiative but another defensive mistake let in Timmins for number three, effectively finishing the game.
Stone did come to life towards the end and a good goal from Nick Buckley reduced the arrears. Picking up the ball on the right he beat his man and the goalkeeper on the near post for a consolation goal.
Final Score:- Gornal Athletic 3 – Stone Old Alleynians 1
Stone Old Alleynians County League side beat Tunstall Town 4 – 1 thanks to a hat-trick from Matty Wood and a goal from Sam Fares.
On Saturday 28th September the Old Alleynians are at home to Hanwood at Wellbeing Park (3pm). The second team are away to Cheadle Town (2pm).
