Match Report

Top of the table opposition, only lost one game all season, and that was to us. We need to put this game in perspective. They concede less than a goal a game on average and score more than three a game. We needed to be on top of our own performance 100% if we were going to get anything out of this game and in spells we were unstoppable, but only after conceding 3, two of which were very poor goals, but then we got back to 3-2 in a really excellent 20 minute period at the end of the first half, with a penalty from Dave and a ‘trademark’ shot from 10 yards after beating the offside trap.

Shaun had stepped in to the breach with Edd away and had set the tie up perfectly with a good sensible team talk about our strengths in pace and skill, both of which we were abundant in during our two goal comeback. At the half time talk again Shaun focused us on these attributes and we came out for the first 15 minutes on the attack and had a glorious chance to put us level when Dave reached the byeline, and squared it back to the penalty spot for a player to remain nameless, and with the goal wide open all play stopped as appeals went up everywhere for the ball going out of play, but no whistle was blown and we completely missed our opportunity that went begging.

We then lost shape and heads went down, 3-2 became 5-2 very quickly, again from sloppy play and errors. We still had chances but nothing clear cut. Then the first piledriver from the Eltham captain allowed 6-2 and an error again made it 7. Luke Dunne was a rock at the back and never gave up all game and was rewarded with his hard work by scoring our consolation third with a powerful header from a well taken corner by Michael Seymour. Dave Thompson deserved MOM with a hardworking performance and took 11 of the votes, just as Piers had done the match before.

After the game we were all very disappointed and it is up to each player to individually look at themselves and decide if today just wasn’t their day, or if there really is more they can give to the last three games of the season to impress all managers for next season. With all three games against very tough opposition it will be a true test of character and commitment as well as our presentation evening honours being voted for over the coming few weeks.