Valence start league season with a win

A bright sunny morning interrupted by the occasional downpour produced a spectacular rainbow as the second team kicked off their new league campaign, against the familiar advisories. Would the match produce a pot of gold?

In the off season, mature, wise heads in the SVHC hierarchy had declined the promotion that the team had earnt last season. This decision was proved correct early on. While the opening exchanges were evenly matched, Sevenoaks were awarded a penalty corner, which they promptly despatched. 0-1 to the away team.

Valence began to play themselves into the match. Tireless running from the Robinson brothers lead to an impressive passage of play. Brett Angel supplied a perfect ball to Ryan Robinson, who rifled into the net. 1-1. Sevenoaks were far from content and immediately launched revolt. Firm debate commenced and Brett Angel was called forward to give a witness statement. ‘Yes – I passed the ball into the D’. Angel’s ratifying statement was approved and the goal stood. Definitely 1-1.

Back on the attack, Sevenoak’s recently retired politician front man caused problems. While composed, the Valence midfield was missing the Tom Willson engine room. With early season defending not up to standard, Sevenoaks bashed in another goal. 1-2.

Undeterred SV showed remarkable resolve and got on with the job in hand. Good running off the ball by Robinson Junior and Walker created some space. Slick passing ensued, and, on occasions the ball was even spread wide. Mickey Back would be proud. Awarded a penalty corner for their efforts, the enigmatic Turnill supplied a ball (the quality of which is rarely seen on the hallowed Prep School astro) to Captain Fantastic, who struck the ball home with a near equal elegance. 2-2. Thankfully this time Sevenoaks did not launch a mutiny. Half time.

The second half continued in much the same vein as the first, a tough yet enjoyable encounter, ultimately played in the right, highly competitive spirit.

Both teams were keen to start the season with a win and neither wanted to lose. Early season, lack of fitness began to play a part. Legs were failing and emotions were fraying. Robust challenges remained a constant. A firm reminder that while the return of Wiltshire is most welcome, the midfield General needs protection from his Centurions.

Arguably boasting some younger, fitter players, Valence’s superior BMI began to show. Sevenoaks put up stern defence, trying to prevent the invertible, but this was no match for the busy Robinson Senior, who slammed the ball home. 3-2.

Into the final quarter of the game, Sevenoaks pressurised the SV defence, forcing a late goal. 3-3.

The shouts of, ‘It is exactly what we deserve’ from the Sevenoaks team were for once shrugged off by Valence. There wasn’t much time, but there was enough time. Tired and emotional, a slick passage of play followed and Valence progressed up the pitch. Cometh the hour, cometh the man, Robinson Jnr, to the enigmatic Turnill, who supplied what can only be described as peach of a ball to Bailey at the back post. Was it Ian, was it Chris? Who cares!!! It was 4-3…

Sevenoaks mustered one final attack. The SV defence, led by the ever young Parker held firm. The final whistle blew. A winning start to the season. Valence will need to play better going forward, but rarely will victories feel more heard earnt.

Thanks to Andy McVarish for stepping in to umpire at late notice.