Lower Breck v AFC Liverpool, 16th November 2023

The Anfield Sports Centre had not been the kindest down the years in terms of winning matches.  In fact, beside a few draws, we were still awaiting our first victory. Another sore point was Breck's 5-0 FA Cup victory at the Marine Travel Arena earlier in the season. Plus, added into the mix was a night of very unpleasant weather.

The previous year we went down 0-2, and when Lower Breck took the lead on 13 mins, my mind raced back to 12 months earlier and the ease at which the home side could seemingly score against us. There seemed little resistance from our defence. Mind you there did seem to be a ball almost caught by a Breck player in the build up and a hint of handball.

But we did strike back just over 10 mins later. Right Back Joe Cunningham moved into the box with purpose. His shot deflected in off a Breck defender, and soon it was the men in Grey (a changed Grey of course) on the front foot. One effort of note got deflected away for an AFC corner.

As I was making my way round to the opposite end past the tunnel, I found myself talking with local groundhopper-cum Luton Town fan Keith Brooksbank. Luton were of course  in the Premier League that season and giving it a good go.

As the second half got going, the men in grey seemed to be carrying on where they left off before half time. And on 51 minutes, Liam Paton finished off a good move, and we were in the lead.

A few minutes later, Kyle Schorah was a bit late in a challenge on a Lower Breck player bringing the ball out of defence. The referee brought out his yellow card, followed by a Red. And he was off. We were all shocked, as no one realised Kyle was on a yellow. However, some Breck players had seemed to be aware. If Kyle was on a Yellow, I suppose that decision was right. But some fans were generally frustrated with some of the ref's decisions.

As things seemed to be turning against us, we broke away on 68 minutes. The move was once more brilliantly finished off by that man Liam Paton. Against the backdrop of the heavy rain, we were all absolutely delighted.

Despite being down to ten men, we did look comfortable. But then with about ten minutes to go Breck got a penalty, scored and it was squeaky bum time again.

The rain continued to lash down. The men in grey continued to battle, and there was also the odd hint of another breakaway from our lads. And their efforts did hold out for a third successive league victory much to the delight of the players, management and fans alike on a most unpleasant night weather-wise. 

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