Match day 2 of the title run-in was a great turn out. Although Bren had to drop out late on and Bri forgetting to check in causing confusion like his chat about politics at the pub. We settled with 8 a side.

A few players came back from recent injuries and shoutout to Reuben for completing a 100miles run so we checked on everyone’s fitness before another tense chess match at the picking board between myself and Mike. We might genuinely need to introduce a stop clock next week just to make sure we actually get out there on time.

The Yellows started much the better side, keeping possession well and playing some really tidy football whilst we struggled in the first half to get up the pitch and establish any rhythm.

Eventually the pressure told. Mike picked the ball up down the right and, despite the angle being against him, fired what he later described as “a rocket" at Joe’s head. Joe wisely decided ducking out the way was probably the safer option. Personally, I was just relieved I still had a goalkeeper standing afterwards.

At that point I felt a change was needed to give us more presence higher up the pitch, so Gary P went up top. The adjustment almost paid off immediately as Andy clipped a great ball towards the back post for Gary P to head down into the path of the onrushing Dave, only for the finish to cannon over the bar via Dave’s knee.

The second half was much better from us as we pushed harder for an equaliser. In doing so we inevitably left space in behind, and the Yellows could easily have added a second if not for some important blocks and recovering tackles from our defenders.

The equaliser eventually arrived from an inswinging corner, with Neil ghosting in at the back post completely unmarked to nod us level and swing the momentum slightly back our way.

Chances followed for both sides, but perhaps the clearest opportunity fell to myself in the area. With the ball dropping nicely I genuinely didn’t think I could miss… but somehow, I managed it. Much to the delight of both Mike and Tom, who remains firmly in pole position for the golden boot.

In the end, a draw probably felt like a fair result. The Yellows controlled large parts of the first half whilst we responded strongly after the break and showed good character to get back into the game.

Man of the match goes to Neil for a strong defensive display topped off with the equalising goal.

And so the Battle of Roxburgh rolls on into the final two games of the season. Mike said last week he was bringing the kitchen sink… looks like I’ll have to get the bathtub.