Magnets Flying High after Richmond Win

Magnets (MO50s) 3 – 2 Richmond Rogues

Squad: Frost (GK), Beaney C, Todd, Corney, Majid, Powdrell, Dowthwaite, Beaney R, Michael, Sharpe, Green, Jackson, Cheng, Waller

Scorers: Dowthwaite, Todd, Beaney R

With an early start at Chiswick we were half-anticipating that the game might be postponed. However, the absence of an overnight frost meant that we were given the go-ahead and assembled bright and early for the 10am start. 

Despite their surprisingly lowly status in the league, Richmond are always a well-organised and strong team, with plenty of experienced players who understand the game. This time was no different, and in many respects the match was not dissimilar to one a couple of years ago with the outcome in doubt until the very end despite the Magnets clearly having the upper-hand throughout. But for all the possession and circle penetrations we were just unable to break the deadlock. Some profligate finishing and inspired goalkeeping by the Richmond custodian kept the scores level until Richmond made the most of a rare foray into our D and scored. 

The Magnets continued to press forward and eventually got their just reward when Dowthers pounced on a loose ball in the D to hit past the keeper. So, 1-1 at half time.  

The second half followed a similar pattern with the Magnets outplaying the opposition but unable to find the finishing touch to some good moves and PC opportunities. Typically Richmond took the lead from another break that was very much against the run of play and it began to feel like it was going to be one of those days. But, finally we had a glimmer of hope as one of Toddy's trademark PC strikes found the backboard. Then with only a few minutes remaining a good team move ended up with Richard Beaney poaching a goal from a well-struck shot from the top of the D that may or may not have been going in. 

All that was then required was for the team to show some composure and see the match out. We were soon on the attack again but missed a golden opportunity to seal the win. Richmond then had one final attack that culminated in a fierce strike that to all intents and purposes looked as if it was going in. However, Frosty, diving at full stretch, managed to steer the ball wide of the post - a fantastic save that ensured we took all three points.  

After a two month break from league action we are now top of the league, although OGs are just behind with games in hand.  The post-match teas were excellent and gave us a chance to catch up with Rob Leach, former captain of the Jokers, who now plays at Richmond and played against us.