After swallowing our pride and enduring a rough performance last week, the Village Ballers turned things around by selling our negativity on eBay and splurging on a brand-new performance via Amazon Prime, culminating in a dazzling 6-1 victory.

With our newly signed center back off at a wedding, the old guard stepped up, welcoming back skipper Dan Brooks, now that his work commitments have eased.

It all kicked off with Wednesday's training, where we focused on high intensity, communication, and movement. And let me tell you, nothing makes a coach happier than seeing all that practice come to life on Saturday's pitch—and boy, did we deliver!

Andy Turnill, up to his old tricks, deftly nudged the ball into the corner, setting the stage for our team to press like a pack of wolves. The pressure was more explosive than a Mentos in a Coke bottle, resulting in Aidan Sleeman scoring his first of the season. From there, the floodgates burst open. Andrew Turnill converted a well-drilled penalty corner, sending the ball into the net with precision. Alex Stamp, who started on the bench simmering with frustration, channelled that energy into an electrifying performance. He netted his first goal in the 16th minute, followed by a classic striker’s goal, cleaning up a failed one-on-one with the keeper courtesy of Coach Carter. And let’s not forget Fred McVarish, who joined the scoring spree in the 31st minute, securing his goal with flair. By halftime, it all felt like a surreal blur—a clear sign that the team was in the zone, working as one and reaping the rewards with a commanding 5-0 lead. You might wonder, why didn't this happen last week? Superstitions? The return of Micky Back? Or was it Lewis Mitchell's bare chest during the pre-match chat that ignited the fire? Who knows!

As the second half began, having caused chaos in the first, the game felt as good as sealed. Now, it was all about managing the play—at times, it was tough to watch! But the boys held strong, and Man of the Match Andy Turnill put the icing on the cake with yet another goal. We emerged as deserving winners, with a final score of 6-1! A lot goals and an excellent team performance where no one could point the finger at anyone this week. And fingers are wise, they’ve pointed out many lessons today.

Report By: Dan Brooks
Team:
Stewart Young
James Stanford
Chris Back
Max Braddick
Dan Brooks
Barney Hall
Ali Carter
Fred McVarish
Lewis Mitchell
Andy Turnhill
Aidan Sleeman
Alex Stamp
Matthew Luksich

Next Match: Gillingham Anchorians M1 (A) 13:45