One point from twelve so not the way we wanted to finish the season, can't complain about this either, failed to turn up or show the appetite for the fight and Hullbridge were worthy winners.
Perhaps a game too many in a testing season, we were uncharacteristically lethargic from the off and allowed Hullbridge to dominate an error strewn first half, ball retention was poor and we seemed to forget the defensive principles that had made us harder to break down since the turn of the year.
Did at least pick things up after the break, cut out the bickering and tried to play a bit of football, had a few chances to level things up but not enough pressure on the home goal to really warrant a share of the points. Conditions did play a part but all in all Hullbridge used them more intelligently and deserved their win.
Worrying little run recently, we'll need to re-focus pre season and take the lessons on board, short of our 40 point target when taking over so progress made but the glass half empty in the final reckoning. No doubt the lads have ability but desire and hunger missing Saturday, 'revenge' was always the buzz word in the build up but collectively we lacked the real will to win to go and make it happen, lacked on field leadership on the day and a 'never say die' ball-winner in midfield - so two priorities for next season.
Would have been nice to have finished on a high, particularly for our loyal fans, but this might have papered over the cracks. Lads have made a great effort second half of the season but Steve has always emphasised how much work still needs to be done so perhaps this will bring us back down to earth. Time now to take stock, look at our requirements for next year and work on attracting quality players in time for pre-season, add these to the excellent nucleus already in place and future prospects will look good.
Last word of thanks for all those connected at Barking for their efforts and loyalty this season, people behind the scenes who genuinely care about this 'fallen giant' of the Non league world so the motivation is there to get Barking back on the football map. Have the man to do it in Steve, has the drive, dedication and total respect of the players, so a new statue on the hill at Goresbrook Leisure Centre hopefully on its way !.
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