Wealden Deadlock

The early exchanges were even, albeit Marden were retaining the ball with slightly more authority, though Valence were strong in the tackle and were able to disrupt any Marden advances. It wasn’t long before Valence played their way into the game as the halves took control of the centre of the pitch and pushed forward. However SVHC had limited cohesion in the first quarter whilst Marden are a team that clearly train together, and they demonstrated more fluidity. Eventually they forced a short corner, and a well hit, low drive found the backboard. 1 Nil.

There was no panic from the home team, Rob Ife sought to drive the game and SVHC press forward and often found himself pushing high into the ‘wrong’ quarter of the pitch. However, with Rob's efforts, this drove SV2s with additional impetus to keep the ball, and to some degree this worked, Valence working hard and forcing a brace of unconverted short corners.

By now, Valence were finally putting comfortable passages of play together, and the midfield trio combined to supply an ever young Andy Turnill, who slotted home. 1-1. A short time after, Valence burst forward, creating another clear-cut opportunity, when former Captain Fantastic, Andy Lee, was left with the open goal at his mercy. It should have been difficult to miss, but miss he did.

In the second half the teams cancelled each other out. Valence arguably exerted more pressure, but it was Marden who came closest, with Rob Ife clearing a lofted shot over the keeper off the line with an impressive overhead block. Valence continued to press forward, causing the Marden defence several anxious moments. Chances came and went, including short corners, but a combination of mediocre shooting and the Marden keeper having a good day at the office meant the deadlock was not broken.

A hard-fought point and important not to lose to higher placed neighbours.
MoM - The Team.