| Match Report |
Snhc 3’s vs Derwent 5’s
Ken Shapland reports
Where do I start - with the fantastic collaborative work done behind the scenes by Tony, the other captains and Batty to get 11 out on the pitch or the epic day trip to Wirksworth to play Derwent?
I will start by confirming that WE GOT OUR FIRST THREE LEAGUE POINTS OF THE SEASON which, given the evidence of working together both on and off the pitch will not be our last this season!
Batty, courtesy of his own Battymobile and drive made it to the match before the start of the game - the team were all really grateful for his commitment - umpiring then high-tailing it to Wirksworth - thanks Batty!
Onto the game ... following a rousing and inspirational talk by Tony the team lined up ready to perform as well as possible against what was a well balance team of experience and youth.
Soon after the whistle, South started to show superiority in all areas of the pitch and, with a solid defence of Tony, Graham, Dick and Arthur (who had a fantastic, confident game) and Simon keeping a few good opportunities out, those up front were able to attack freely knowing the defence was secure.
The midfield were able to distribute the ball well to the forwards - of particular note was the interchange between the two brothers and Henry taking the ball forwards frequently to the front of our attack helped by Craig having stepped in to support the threes - thanks Craig - this sort of support is really appreciated and demonstrates again the togetherness of the Club.
The strength of the midfield which sometimes included James made it was possible for the game to be taken to their D and the pressure was rewarded by an excellent goal by Sam who was in the correct place to convert a cross. 1:0 South.
Other opportunities came South's way and Ken sent one over the bar after a great series of passes.
Derwent appeared to score to make it 1:1 but following a discussion between their umpires to confirm a rule, the goal was disallowed - some of the old stagers in Derwent's defence grumbled about the decision but we all knew the umpires were good.
South had several chances to score more with James taking a great shot which went over the bar. South didn't get frustrated and just got on with the game and when we won a penalty corner, James injected and Ken converted. 2:0 South!
There were many stand-out performances but again the three youngsters - no not Dick, me and Graham - played exceptionally well with Sam probably edging the best performance we've seen from him - more to come from him in the future!
So, three league points taken from this game and when the team came off the pitch we all felt every one of us had performed as well as possible to secure this great victory.
There was no access to the changing facilities after the game and because we had this strange wet stuff leaking from our bodies (no not my incontinence pads) we were actually sweaty so several of us changed in the car park! Although this was all forgotten when we felt we obliged to help the oppos by eating their food and Dick was able to use the "facilities".
So, thanks to Tony and everyone involved for the great game and win - bring on next week!!
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