Journos see weaknesses as Brakes make good start to 1975

Brakes made an impressive start to 1975 building on success in the festive season, although doubts continued to be expressed by reporter Roger Draper.  Bedworth United were beaten 3-1 on Boxing Day and this ‘win at the Windmill did Brakes’ league position a power of good, but despite the profit of two more, very valuable points, the way in which it was achieved was far from impressive.’ 

Roger Brown put the home side ahead from the penalty spot on 13 minutes but seconds later an effort from Stewart hit the post.   ‘The home side then entered a sticky phase, and almost allowed their punchless visitors to grab the equaliser.    Dave Garrett had to work hard to make the save.   After shooting straight at the keeper, Bobby Horne made amends in the second half by chipping the ball over him to make it 2-0.   

‘With Leamington again hitting a barren pitch, ex Coventry City and World Cup star Gerry Baker put Bedworth back in the hunt with a well-executed goal 13 minutes from time.’   However, seconds later Stewart made it 3-1 for the Brakes, taking advantage of a neatly headed pass from Lee.

Brakes then faced Stevenage at home.  ‘Two goals down within a mere 13 minutes, Brakes staged a superb recovery to storm to their most impressive win of the term at the Windmill on Saturday.  High-riding Stevenage boasted one of the best records in the league – just 19 defeats in two outings – and indeed shook AP to their roots in the opening spell with some fine soccer in near gale-force conditions.’ 

 The visitors took advantage of the ‘hopelessly exposed home rearguard’ to go 2-0 ahead ‘and things were beginning to look very black for AP.  But Brakes then began to pull themselves together and 12 minutes from the interval managed to reduce the deficit.  A superb right-wing cross from Ivor Talbot found centre forward Adrian Stewart, who smacked a first time attempt into the back of the net. 

Eight minutes into the second period Stewart struck again to put AP back on level terms, and just on the hour Brakes forged ahead with Keeley tapping home a fine Dennis Taylor centre.  The closing phases were then furiously contested as the visitors battled to salvage the result, but with Brown, Taylor and Griffiths superb at the back, and Adrian Stewart having the game of his life, Brakes hung on deservedly to take the points.’

Brakes then went on to beat Wellingborough 1-0 with a ninth minute goal from Stewart to extend their unbeaten run into double figures.  ‘Brakes ruthlessl y laid bare Wellingborough’s defensive limitations – and then conspired to fritter away a bunch of chances with slip-shod, almost farcical finishing. 

And although manager Jimmy Knox was pleased with the result, he must be dismayed by the reckless finishing that allowed Boro’ to stay in the hunt after being given a right Royal run around.   This finishing slackness must place a large question against AP’s right to demand a promotion interest.  But they again underlined their claims with a sound defensive action dominated by powerful Doug Griffiths.   And with Mickey Boot putting in a tremendous 90 minutes, effectively backed by Steve Lee and Bobby Horne, they had a classical dominance in midfield that promises to breathe late life into AP’s challenge for honours.’