Another second half win - now if we could only do better in the 1st....

(Apologies in advance this is not a Goldstraw masterpiece!)

In the absence of the Veterans illustrious leader, the team took to the field under the guidance of Captain Tchakhotine. Having been soundly beaten by their opposition in the earlier fixture due to the mis-match in age/stamina/speed (and probably many other things!) the Sils went for a 3-5-2 formation, looking to frustrate the opposition and crowd the middle of the pitch.

This sort of worked for a bit, but in the space of 5 minutes Andrew Scott was penalised for making a perfectly clean tackle (which actually lead to him injuring his finger and taking no further part in the game) from which the visitors scored, and the Captain smashed the ball into his own net from close range. As has been the case with many of our Summer League games, the Vets were up against it, and had to raise their game.

A further two goals before half-time for the opposition was not quite in the script, but the team re-assembled and re-focussed efforts to come out fighting in the second half.

With stand in Goalkeeper Steve Aylin putting in a fine performance (to secure him the Man of the Match award) and our usual hero between the sticks also putting in a fine performance with the whistle (thanks Jim!), Sils were able to get themselves back in the game. Henry Scott (making a guest performance whilst on a break from University) plucked a shot off the line, and the visiting keeper was forced to make a few smart saves, but was unable to do anything about a close range finish from Rich Thurman after some great build up play down the right by Tchakotine, Dovey and Simon Russell.

Once again the Veterans won the second half to their match, but ended up losing. However, as usual, a fine performance was put in after the match in the clubhouse, with the visiting side also staying for some drink and food (having been embarrassed by their poor showing in the previous match when only 2 of their team stayed to be sociable).

A week off to re-group and see if some points can be earned against Hampton when the Captain returns to inspire the team!