Match Reports – March 1 2014

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Ladies XI

Wanderers 3s v Old Cranleighans 1s
Score 2-1 to wanderers
 
After a two week break for half term we were all hoping to start with the same fighting form as we’ve had for the second half of the season. The first battle was getting in to Kennington and finding parking!!
 
With Cookiey kindly umpiring we got cracking on the rather terrible sand based pitch, however they seemed to have a more determined edge. 20mins in to the first half a well rehearsed short corner saw their injector sneak one past Michele . We certainly had our chances though but all seemed to go wide.
 
The second half we came out wanting it more. Lots more talking and hard passes between us saw several attempts however it wasn’t until midfield got the ball to Heather who got it on target from the top of the D that we drew level. Some scrappy desperate play saw it going from end to end- we made it hard for ourselves on occasions. Michele made some great saves- even coming out to the top of the D on one occasion . Unfortunately in the last two minutes we couldn’t seem to get it away from our goal and they popped one in to make it 2-1 to them. There was a feeling a point was whipped from our grasp at the last second- however we’ll learn for next time.

1st XI

A very difficult week that started with a 7 point gap at the top, 11 points to guarantee promotion, 15 players available for the 22nd Feb and a tough fixture looming.

The week ended with 6 points needed for promotion, only 12 players available due to injury, illness, work commitments and a senseless decision of one player to leave the club due to his feeling that he was not having enough pitch time.

On the flip side, other players disappointed at being substituted, talked it over, did not necessarily agree with the explanation but took it on the chin. We are a side of character as evidenced by grinding out results in extreme circumstances. Yesterday was no exception.

With Juggernaut George ending Scarney’s season we needed to shuffle the defensive pack somewhat dramatically with Ollie Taylor playing his second game of the season due to his school commitments. 

On a slow pitch that did not suit either side LEs proceeded to play right into our hands allowing us time to settle and not putting us under pressure. Taking the initiative with Wiso, Wils and Harry dominant in midfield we went 2 up in 10 minutes through Harry who found space when a short broke down and Jay deflecting home a well worked free hit. From that point onwards Eds pushed and pushed us but were unable to create more than the odd chance and some short corners. They pulled one back when we lost concentration for a second but were themselves caught napping when pressing at the end of the first half allowing George to set up Jay with a magical pass with Jay popping home the shot.

10 minutes into the second half we were 3 clear as Wiso capped a top captain’s performance with his 8th of the season from our only short in the second half.

From this point onwards we tired, Eds pressed, pulled back 2 goals but could not find the equalizer as we held firm. Nothing was left in any of the tanks in what was once again, a remarkable performance.

Horsham are now in second with the likelihood of taking at least 13 points from the last 15 whilst we need 6 to guarantee promotion and 7 for the league.

Availability is poor for the next 5 weeks, bar the 15th March, so winning those final few points will not be easy.

As for Saturday’s win, we did it for you Sam.