The AP 6th XI kicked off the season with a comprehensive 4-1 victory over Mr Burwell’s 5th XI who were riding high after their previous preseason outing!
Both sides met at Albert Road for a 12pm kick off. My thanks to all players who made themselves available for the game at such short notice.
We started the first half very brightly with the new players linking up well with last season’s stalwarts! After ten minutes, Craig broke the deadlock with a well finished goal. Ten minutes later, he scored again from the penalty spot after the 5th XI captain made a very harsh challenge in the area and our advantage was doubled. Shortly before half time, Sean Phelan scored on his debut at the near post from a corner. At this stage it was fair to say that the 5th XI were unable to cope with our link up play and constant pressure that was put on any of their players in possession.
The second half continued in the same vein with the 6th XI dominating all of the exchanges. Gareth took over in goal from Rich who stepped into midfield. Joe went off with an injury early into the second half which meant that the centre back partnership now consisted of John and Tom who both looked comfortable in their new roles. Laurent (after a very solid performance) made way for Ollie who was keen to get on the ball at every opportunity. After a number of chances, Craig found the net again from a long range effort and the game was well and truly over. The final whistle came after the 5th XI finally managed to find the net for what was probably their first shot on target of the afternoon!
It was a very positive first outing for the 6th XI with all of the new players impressing in their various roles and last season’s players showing why their starting places are still not under threat……for now!
It would be unfair to single anybody out for the MoM award as it was a brilliant performance from the entire team and the signs for the coming season are very positive.
Don’t forget, training continues at the clubhouse every Thursday at 6:30pm for all players from 5th to 8th XI and for any new players who wish to join. It is vital that all players attend training to help prepare for the coming season.
Team: Rich Bowhill, Laurent Caudebec (Ollie Edge), Gareth Banton, Joe Robinson (M Myers), Tom Thrale, Chirac Shah, John Leonard, Tom White, Jack Dudmish, Craig Dawkins, Sean Phelan (Ben Carter).
