Brakes Taught a Lesson

Brakes were overcome by a strong Solihull Borough who were 3rd in the Doc Marten's last season and played Kidderminster Harriers in their last friendly. Although Borough were clearly the better side Brakes were not over-awed, matched Borough at times and were on top, after Billo's 30th minute strike, for the rest of the half.

A fast and furious game initially rocked Brakes who went behind in 5 minutes from a superb low drive followed by a soft goal that bobbled off a defender. On the back foot at 2-0 Brakes played some good football but went further behind on 20 when Borough drilled one in from a corner and then conceded an avoidable goal after a defensive error. Billington scored with an excellent strike and Brakes dominated for the rest of the half with Webb, in particular, catching the eye.

Brakes started the 2nd half where they left off with Webb continuing to play well and some good performances as Brakes adjusted to the pace. But Borough broke away to score 5 minutes after the restart, with the defence static, to re-impose their dominance. A penalty on 70, after Beefie had fouled a player on the edge of the box, and another excellent goal 5 minutes later completed the scoring.

There were some good things to come out of this. A defeat against a side 3 divisions higher is no disgrace and it was heartening how Brakes never allowed their heads to drop. They were punished by the sort of mistakes that a little tinkering in defence should overcome and, until they tired later in the 2nd half, showed the desire to compete. Good opposition can only improve their game and they shouldn't meet a team this good in the league for, probably, 3 seasons!