Edgbaston 2 - 3 Old Silhillians

Edgbaston 2 (0) - (2) 3 Old Silhillians 3s

Goalscorers: Dan Jones (3)

Well it was back to the seat of learning on Bonfire Night weekend, as the Simon Russell Army rolled into Birmingham University for a late fixture against Edgbaston. Once again, the frivolity of student life was in evidence as an American Football was being played, and the Leisure Studies undergraduates were out in force. There was fireworks, light shows and a heavy rock soundtrack. It was like being at a fusion of a battle, a Guns n'Roses concert and a Teletubbies convention.

But enough of that. It was a cold and damp game, but the 'yoof' of the Sils started fast and were soon causing problems for the Edge defence. The confidence of some of our young players is great to see, and chances were being created on a regular basis. Jimmy was causing problems down the right, and the impressive midfield of Harry - supported by a carousel of others - was exhilarating. At about the time the American Football kicked off to a serendade of 'Sweet Child of Mine', Sils were ahead. The ball was slotted home by the burly figure of Jones following great work down the wings. This was deserved, and with a defence ably controlled by Clutterbuck and Barton (aren''t they a firm of solicitors? - Ed), Sils looked comfortable. The lead was doubled just before HT, when Jones picked up a defence splitting pass (started by Dom and Jimmy), and rounded the keeper. 2-0 looked comfortable.#

As the weather worsened, the Sils lost a little bit of shape. It was like someone slipping of the Atkins diet. We became a bit sloppy, and Edge pulled a goal back. However, to see Sils this year is to grow in belief that they will stick to it. We re-established our structure, and with Rich Foord, Ruthvik and Ollie gaining control we went 3-1 up thanks to Jones completing a well-earned hat-trick. As the students' began to suffer from the effects of too much diluted, over-priced alcohol, Edge came back again and made it 3-2. The tension was high - like watching John Harrison going into to tackle a youngster, we thought anything could happen. The Edge umpires were severe on pushing, and to their immense credit sent off three of theirs to one of ours. As the clock ran down, there was time for Dom to produce the tackle of the match and the points were secure.

The celebration drink was held in one of the many university bars that has as much atmosphere as Pluto. Stiil, chicken wings were eaten, fines were dished out, and the deserving Jones was player of the match. Captain Russell has created an excellent atmosphere, and many of the younger players will soon by heading up to the Magoos. Still, we must enjoy them while we can. Mid table now - and more to come we hope.