Men's 1st XI Vs Barton 2

Match Report from Dan Truman, 1-1

South started the game knowing that Barton 2’s were going to be a strong side.  From the first whistle, South fought hard to show Barton that we weren't going to be an easy push over for 3 points. 

South played fast and efficiently, linking up passes and keeping possession. South were in relentless pursuit for a goal with strong pressing upfront, paired with affective and smart passing round the back keeping Barton from getting the ball. All South needed now was a goal. Unfortunately, Barton were gifted a penalty flick following a short corner which they converted to give them the 1-0 lead. No momentum was lost though and we soon got our foot back in the game and finished the first half strong. 

The second half started and South knew they could score an equaliser and more. Once again South pressed Barton looking for any way to score a goal. The defence held strong nullifying all Barton attacks, as well as keeping possession and working the ball around the pitch to keep Barton on their toes. Their goalkeeper seemed to be stopping everything thrown at him until Matty steps up to secure a goal, with a linkup pass from Mike with an eye of the needle pass and a triumphant run into the D to caress the ball past the goalkeeper. South had their equaliser. 

With a flurry of cards, Barton went down to 9 men and with a couple more close opportunities, South were not able to find the winner. If only South could have converted a short corner, it could have been a different result. In hindsight, no one was expecting to see such a close and well-fought game. Yet we came away with a well-earned draw and easily some of the best hockey we’ve played this season.