By Martin Eastwood
Academy product Sandy Masuku caught the eye as Emley AFC rounded off the 2021-22 campaign with a goalless draw which ensured a ninth-place finish.
There was nothing to play for but pride as the Pewits went to Lincolnshire to face Bottesford Town but the game presented a big opportunity for pacy attacker Masuku.
Tom Claisse picked up a muscle injury and his night ended after just six minutes but that gave a chance to Masuku who grabbed the opportunity with both hands, producing a Man of the Match performance.
In a game of few chances Joe Jagger fired wide before Masuku was denied by the home keeper after a good ball through.
Into the second half and Masuku was causing the Poachers’ backline some problems with his pace and movement. He found himself with another chance but he couldn’t keep the ball down and his effort went over the top.
Masuku then had a great chance to score. It was good feet by the youngster in midfield who then spun and found space in the inside right position, a good ball found him, and he beat the defender but the keeper did well to save.
Masuku enjoyed his night and created all sorts of problems. He was the 11th member of Emley’s Academy to make the step up this season and the 12th wasn’t far behind.
Charlie Auty came on for his senior debut replacing skipper Jamie Price, another successful elevation for the Academy.
After a tough start to the campaign Emley finished strongly climbing into the top 10 after losing just twice in the last 10 matches, giving a platform to build on for next season.
