2nd X1 raise game for strong result

Although the 2nd Xl felt they had a good team out the early part of the game was hard fought with Gore Court building through a base of experienced skill linking with some youthful pace. It was therefore a bit of a surprise when Valence actually took the lead, which was, to be honest, through some generous goalkeeping on Gore Court’s behalf. In fact, it wasn’t long before the home side hit back and, if they didn’t before, Valence knew they needed to raise their game to its full potential.
But raise it they did, and as a team they instinctively picked up on the personnel and routes that Gore Court were threatening with, and consequently started closing down players and intercepting through balls. This took the sting out of the hosts’ game and Sutton Valence began to take control with the solid back able to connect, via slick passing through the middle, with good runners up front. Indeed, generally players finding space and being available for passes was key.
Deservedly, it all paid dividends, first with Valence going ahead and then with their continued pressing and scoring causing Gore Court to become demoralised and unable to reproduce the early skill they had shown. This led to the floodgates opening and an eventual eight goals passing the Gore Court keeper despite him admirably raising his game. At the other end the Valence defence gradually had less to do and, even more dishearteningly for the opposition, when they did finally get a fantastic top corner shot away the massive Mackay mitt was there to deny them and sum up a great all round team performance.

Goals: Chris Stille (2); Chris Sheldon, Alex Stamp (3); Lewis Mitchell; Tom Willson.

Team: Ross Mackay; Andy Barr; Chris Stille; Tom Ireland; Chris Sheldon; Adrian Gander (c); Tom Willson; Ben Tragett; Steve Parker; Lewis Mitchell; Russell Blanchard; Alex Stamp; Brett Angel.
Umpires: Provided by Gore Court.

Match report by Andy Barr.

Next week the 2nd Xl are at home at 09:45 against Herne Bay 4th Xl.