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Result sees Wood firmly rooted at the foot of the table
This was a really scrappy affair played for the most part in heavy showers. In truth a decent game of football was spoiled by numerous stoppages following a string of petty fouls. Had the referee clamped down earlier in the game I suspect that the players may have responded quite differently. A bumpy pitch didn't help either and often led to some poor control and miscued shots. And there were plenty!
For the record Bartley Green looked by far the better side and deserved their three goals to nil victory. The opening goal was a real beauty and scored after a perfectly executed lob beat the advancing 'keeper just outside the penalty area. The scoreline actually flattered the hosts who will need to be a lot sharper up front if they are to avoid relegation come next May. Travellers may be interested to note that matches in this league now kick-off at 3pm (and not 2.45pm as was the previously the case).
Facilities at Burntwood are basic but homely. The social club and changing rooms are located next to the main entrance and car park. It is necessary to walk up some steps to reach the pitch which is at the top of a steep grassed embankment. Entry in the corner is next to the tea bar and committee room. Most fans chose to congregate here and a few took advantage of some plastic seats nearby. A low roofed stand opposite runs from the half-way line as far as the corner flag. It is the only cover on site. Beware of the toilets though! To my surprise I found that the blue plastic portaloo next to the referee's changing room was in fact the public convenience. Upon entering this primitive tardis I hadn't planned for it to suddenly swivel and end up at a forty-five degree angle to the ground outside! Spending a penny was quite a disconcerting experience I can tell you!
A newsy 20 page programme sold for £1 and contained plenty of reading material and stats as well as all the usual features you would expect. The tea bar did a busy trade in hotdogs, chocolate bars and canned drinks.
To reach the club I took the M6 (Toll) road coming off at junction 6. By going back over the toll road bridge you follow signs for Burntwood along the Hospital Road, Chase Road and finally the Rugeley Road. After about three hundred yards the club entrance at the Community Centre is visible on the left hand side of the road.
FGIF Rating: 3* | 