3rd XI march on

Sutton Valence 3rd XI hosted Folkestone Optimist 7th XI in what was anticipated to be a challenging match.

Folkestone started the game looking rather lively, but Sutton Valence were quick to find their rhythm also, making a number of pacey attacks, which were well repelled by the Folkestone keeper.
The entirety of the first half was end-to-end hockey, with both teams looking very evenly matched. Neither side able to break the deadlock going into half time.

The second half was equally end-to-end, both teams striving to get the first goal. It was clear at this point that the game was only going to be decided by the team that made the first mistake.

Folkestone were unlucky not to take the lead, but a duo of vital saves by keeper David Turner kept Sutton Valence in the game.

Eventually, the deadlock was broken. Sutton Valence made a quick break from the halfway line, which saw Julian Mills cross the ball across the D to Rod Harcourt. The ball was flicked up by Harcourt, padded down by the keeper into the attacking player, who utilised the advantage to fumble the ball ever so slightly over the line rather than forcing a short corner.

Defensive mode engaged. With only minutes to go Sutton Valence hunkered down to keep Folkestone out of a goal scoring opportunity. Again, David Turner made a great match saving block to secure the 3rd XI’s seventh consecutive win.

An even and well battled game by both sides, much enjoyed by all on the field.

Goals: Rod Harcourt

Team: Nick Worsfold; Alex Stanford; Stuart Edmed; Mark Whitmill; Bob Bartlett; Mike Nettle; David Turner; Darren Thompson; Julian Mills; John Edmed; Rob Cockayne; Rod Harcourt; Andrew McVarish.

Match report by Rob Cockayne.

Next week the 3rd Xl are away against Gillingham Anchorians 4th Xl at 13:45.