A fiery local derby to kick off the second matchday of the season. Years of bad blood and harsh words leaves this fixture high up on the list of “spicy” games of the season.
Gloucester started fast, bringing the “spice”. Free flowing attack by a youthful front three carved open the Cheltenham defence. Lux to Newman, Newman to Harry Elliot who stepped up at the back post, bravely turning in a valiant effort from Newman.
A period of sustained pressure led to the second. Hugo unselfishly decided instead of scoring an easy chance himself, he’d lay it off to his pal Jack to bag in the bottom corner. In the foray Jack sustained a significant injury, but bravely played on.
The damage didn’t stop there and the guy they call “the damage” got on the end of one himself.
The third goal came from the marauding Ash Watterson, gracefully gliding into the D. They couldn’t tackle him cleanly and had to foul him, winning a penalty corner. Lux with the drag and the ball fell to Newman. Quick thinking led to an improvised “one-two” off the keeper and he buried the follow up in the bottom corner.
3-0, halftime and some jelly babies. Second half and the pressure didn’t waiver.
A fourth goal soon came through Newman. An absolutely audacious lob from close range beating the keeper and a gaggle of defenders. Ice cool finish from the experienced striker.
Smart work from the two Harrys led to the final goal of the piece. The “sh*t Matt Fairburn” picked the ball up on the left in the final third. With a few body feints and shoulder drops later from Harry (he only has one skill) he was at the byline, pulling it back to Harry Elliott to get his second of the game.
A one sided affair with Gloucester proving too much for Cheltenham.