Hesketh Casuals B suffered their third consecutive home defeat without scoring against high-flying Bury GSOB, who have not dropped a point since early October. Not even the presence of goalkeeper Paul Hames up front could help conjour up a goal of any kind. Cassies can console themselves with the knowledge that the most ridiculous thing ever said on a football pitch was uttered by the opposition. During play Cassies players could hear repeated accusing screams of “You’re cheating again…you’re all cheaters!”, from the Bury midfielder. As the home players looked around them perplexed as to what they had done to warrant such abuse, the midfielder followed up with, “You’re not marking that man…you’re cheating your team mates” ……..what a pr*ck.

There was much doubt over whether the game would be played with a huge lake emerging in the middle of the field as the players arrived. But with the help of a post, two pitch forks, three buckets, two brooms, and seven enthusiastic players the puddle had spread and the game was to be staged. Praise must be heaped on the players who mucked in and showed their commitment to the team by clearing the lake, not to forget Forsh, Thommo, Langy Aspy and Greal who watched with a curious interest from a considerable distance away, but managed to get the posts up within the hour.

Anyway, to the game. Cassies started brightly as they had the wind assisting them but found it difficult to create many chances. Bury managed to attack the home team’s goal but found the formidable Matt Valentine in their way, who scuppered any hope of them breaking the deadlock. In fact, when MacGregor brought down their striker for a penalty after half an hour, Valentine saved the spotkick to keep the scores level. At the other end, Langton went close with a neat dink after a sumptuous pass from Forshaw, whislt Chris Hames’ header crept over the bar.

At the break, Cassies were content with the 0-0 scoreline but knew the second half was going to prove difficult playing into the wind. Within the first couple of minutes Bury took the lead when their striker’s initial effort was superbly saved by Valentine only for his rebound to land at the striker’s feet who slammed the ball home. Cassies battled hard with Walker and Aspin running the midfield and Tomlinson came close to equalising late on. With only seconds remaining Bury sealed the win with a well worked free kick which left the keeper with no chance. With only three games to go Cassies could do with a win or two to boost their morale and end the season on a high note.

Man of the match: Matt Valentine