Sparticans Edge Another Ditton Derby
By Simon Fitch
Sparticans 4 – 2 Old Cranleighans
The Sparticans’ post-season bandwagon rolled on with another very enjoyable Saturday afternoon, as we played another game against neighbours Old Cranleighans at a blustery Sugden Road.
Both sides saw changes from our last game on Easter Monday and the Sparticans were rocked with a further late withdrawal from Mr Bell. Fitchy Snr reacted quickly and ensured the complex 14 man rotation matrix was complete and brought to the dugout as per usual.
We were further confused by Andy not being able to umpire from the start – thanks to Apples for stepping in and of course to Andy for rushing over after the Ladies 2s had finished and helping to control a competitive game.
The match itself started feistily and saw chances for both sides from the off. Eventually our pressure paid off and Matt put us ahead after a great team move. We went 2 – 0 up shortly after half time with Lewis finishing at the far post, a tactic particularly enjoyed by our defenders who express their frustration each week with customary mild manner at our profligacy.
OCs played well, though, and came back to 2 – 1 fairly quickly. We then put in another courtesy of Wardy’s quick reactions after Kev’s short corner hit the post. The aforementioned centre forward’s day was then curtailed as a lifted ball met his eyebrow. An express job at Kingston A&E meant he was back for a pint, and thank you Steve for driving him there. After his departure, we continued to press with our Fun Boy Three youngsters playing well and stepping up to the plate. OCs’ second goal was slightly against the run of play but meant a tense last few minutes.
With two minutes to go, another excellent piece of team play found Fitchy junior just outside the D. Sensibly he passed to Fitchy senior who turned and finished with one of his better efforts. This earned the latter the Moment of The Match Lynx and a half share of Spartican of The Day with ‘Mr Everywhere’ Wardy.
We retired to the marquee for a top class chicken, chips and Yemenese sauce match tea combo and a lengthy debrief. Another day well done. Bring on the Magnets and FA Cup Final special next week!