Magnets Claw Back 2-2 Draw with OCs Hamstrings
By Mark Waller
Magnets 2 – 2 Old Cranleighans Hamstrings
Squad: Frost, Todd, Lane, Corney, Beaney C, Cheng, Majid, Barnicoat, Michael, Green, Dowthwaite, Jackson, Waller
Scorers: Todd, Corney
Umpires: Borrow/Johnston
Played under the lights, this was an uncharacteristically feisty and evenly contested local derby against our friends from OCs.
OCs set out their stall early and were quick to impose themselves, with their effective man-marking and work-rate that saw them scrap hard for every loose ball. We initially struggled to cope with their physicality, although it wasn't all one-way traffic. Unfortunately we failed to take advantage of some positive attacking moves and several good chances went begging. Instead, OCs seized the advantage, scoring from one of their forays into our D. The score remained at 1-0 for the rest of the first half as we struggled to raise our game.
Although we started the second half with a bit more purpose, OCs broke quickly following a turnover and scored soon after the resumption. At 2-0 down it wasn't looking like it would be our day. But, we kept our composure (for the most part) and started to dominate possession and territory. OCs defended resolutely, but as we grew in confidence the cracks started to appear and we deservedly clawed our way back into the game. A cool finish from Howard and a typical PC strike from Toddy that almost splintered the backboard ensured a hard-won point to keep us second in the league.
A big thank you to Ray and Dave for umpiring. They kept the game flowing despite the undercurrent of tension present from the outset.