Sutton Valence 2’s headed up the hill to the Holcombe fortress.
Naturally we were on pitch 2 far away from knowledgeable supporters.
As we arrived we were greeted by the opposing side going through a vigorous warm up and in true form we watched from a distance before staggering onto the pitch to smash a few balls at Whitters.
Warm up done!!!!!
The game started with both sides passing the ball around with no real intention of heading towards goal.
Within a few minutes the game plans for both sides had been revealed.
Holcombe were going to try for the long ball through and our plan was to work hard to get the ball and then instantly pass it back to them….
The first half was a close fought game with both sides having a couple of chances but both keepers keeping their sheets clean.
After a very technical half time talk (at times it sounded as if we knew what we were talking about) we galloped into the second half .
As the half progressed our youth (yes youth!!!!!) started to stretch the game and with some strong running from Jack Sheldon and Alex Holcombe found themselves on the back foot and chances for a winner started to appear.
Several good crosses from Jack, Alex and Duncan unfortunately weren’t met with a stick in front of goal.
Sutton Valence defence held well with a very confident performance from Sheldon the even younger and a couple of sharp saves from Whitters. A goalless draw was looking likely.
Suddenly a ball played out of Valence’s D was passed up the pitch with sound accuracy and Sheldon the oldest managed to find the back board.
1-0 was the final score but both sides agreed it could have gone either way but strange to say our youth won through, with special mention for Olly and Jack Sheldon, and with some solid performances from the more mature participants.
Pasta for lunch and back down the hill.
The win means that Valence leapfrog over Holcombe from 4th into 3rd place, with the same points but a better goal difference, but also with a game in hand.

Team: Mark Whitmill; Darren Thompson; Adrian Gander; Ben Tragett; Duncan Field; Chris Sheldon; Jack Sheldon; Alex Hodges; Alastair Robinson; Rob Harrison; Tom Willson; Olly Sheldon; Stuart Edmed.
Umpires provided by Holcombe.

Match report by Rob Harrison.

Next week the 2nd Xl are at home on the senior school astro against K Sports 3rd Xl at 09:45.