Magnets 1 - 4 Epsom MO50s (H)

Scorer: Beaney R 

Squad: Barnicoat, Beaney C, Beaney R, Dowthwaite, Dye, Foster, Frost, Green, Hardy, Sharpe, Todd, Waller, Wingfield

Umpires: Borrow & Eley

Having picked up a few points recently, it was back down to earth with a bump this week against a strong and experienced Epsom side.  

For some reason in the first half we seemed unable to get the basics right - poor first touch, slow decision making, and sloppy passing making it quite easy for Epsom to play the ball around and create plenty of chances. We had a few attacking opportunities, but these were quickly snuffed out and we hardly troubled their GK. Meanwhile, at the other end, as in previous weeks, our opponents gladly seized on errors to get themselves two goals up by the break.

The second half was much better as we began to create some good passing moves going forward. But clear opportunities were few and far between - we didn’t win a PC all game - and their GK ensured that he kept out most of the handful of shots that we did have. But, as we clawed our way back into the game, a quick pass found Dick Beaney at the top of the circle and he struck a superb first time strike to leave the GK with no chance.  

At 2-1 it wasn’t impossible to imagine that we might get something from the game. However, as we pressed high Epsom soaked up the pressure and scored from two breakaway attacks, their fourth from a sublime piece of skill.

In the end, it was probably the right result. But, we can take heart from a much improved second half performance. We were especially grateful to Ravvers and Noaksy for doubling-up and bolstering our ranks. It really helps to have players of their calibre against the top sides at this level.

Thanks also to Ray and Richard for umpiring in such chilly conditions. The best compliment I can make is that there were few contentious moments and the match was generally played in a good spirit.