On a fine sunny day, Valence 3rds fielded a stronger team for their second fixture at Borden School. The home team was made up of mature adult players with a sprinkling of youth, in contrast to the predominance of youth opposition in their first game.
Play in the early minutes suggested that the two sides were going to be evenly matched as they quickly settled into the game. However, after only 6 minutes, Valence, mounting a quick counterattack, took the Sittingbourne defence by surprise, and Rob Cockayne’s strike gave Valence an early lead. This seemed to motivate the home team which then had the better part of possession for the rest of the half. They were well organised and spent much time in the Valence dee, but valiant defending kept the score unchanged. Key moments in this period occurred when Sittingbourne won two short corners, both of which were magnificently saved by keeper Stewart Young. The half time score remained at 0-1 despite the half being largely dominated by the home team.
The second half started with more pressure from Sittingbourne and another useful save, this time by Julian Mills clearing the line after keeper Young had been beaten. However, Valence began to look more organised and started to threaten the Sittingbourne dee. A good run by Chris Johnson into the home dee ended with a shot which was parried by the keeper, but Cockayne’s smart follow up made it 0-2.
Valence continued to look lively with some good play from both Sheldon junior and senior, Chris and Jack. Shortly after, a cross from the right found the keeper out of position and the unmarked Henry Humphrey slotted in goal number 3.
The game continued with both sides creating chances but with Sittingbourne becoming increasingly frustrated at not being able to penetrate the hard-working Valence defence. At the final whistle, the score was unchanged at 0-3, which probably flattered Valence, who owed a lot to their keeper’s agility. Nevertheless, it was a well fought win.

Goals: Rob Cockayne 2, Henry Humphrey 1

Team: Stewart Young, Andy McVarish, Mike Nettle, Bob Sagrott, Paul Linaker, Julian Mills, Rob Cockayne, Chris Johnson, Chris Sheldon, Jack Sheldon, David Turner, Henry Humphrey.
Umpires: Provided by the home team.

Next week the 3rd Xl are at home at 11.15 against Gore Court 5th Xl.

Match Report by Nick Willson.