Old Sils 1 - Hampton in Arden 5

Match Report by Steve Aylin

We lost 5-1 to the team at the top of our league.

It was so much more than that.

We started tentatively in all areas of the pitch - not enough shape, soft tackling, poor communication and hurried passing. We then won a short corner and everything changed. Defensively we became determined, resilient and all took responsibility for OUR roles - we marked our men, we trusted each other, we told each other what we wanted and what we were doing. Midfielders tracked back like never before and were constantly aware of threats from beyond the 25. When we had the ball, we were forced to vary our approach by a side that pressured us throughout. We wanted to go right and Mick was always there, but when that avenue was closed, Alex was always a willing outlet in the centre. Maxim repeatedly picked up the ball and gave the opposition defence something to think about. Andy also ran at their defenders but was thwarted by their strength in depth again and again.

The speed and movement and stick skills of the opposition saw them deserved winners. Their goals included a well-worked short corner, two deflections and two own goals. Our consolation effort presumably came about after a half-time discussion about the diminutive size of the keeper - the build-up included a looping cross/shot/deflection that went 15 feet in the air - the 4-foot keeper can't defend the top half of the net. (Or if he does he leaves the bottom half wide open!)

Strong performances all across the park and an enjoyable game despite the score.

Man of the Match: Murray Creed