Earlier in the season, this looked like the shootout to see who would finish top at Christmas, however following last week's shock defeat to Friars, this was made even more important, and Valence went into the game buoyed by their performances so far this season, but conscious that they were travelling to face unbeaten League leaders Old Bordenians hoping for a victory which could prove critical later in the season as both teams chase the League title.
Valence started the game brightly playing high in the Bordenians’ half, chasing loose balls and hassling the opposition into mistakes on the ball. Despite this it took Valence until mid-way through the half to open the scoring through a trademark Cockayne close range finish, following some good passing moves through the midfield and forwards.
Valence continued to pressure and had the better of the possession for the remainder of the half, forcing Bordenians to play on the break. The defence did well when under pressure and both Bordenians short corners were blocked by the defenders running off the line.
At half time Valence focussed on the positives but rued missed opportunities to put the game to bed from promising attacking positions. Valence doubled their lead in the second half through another good Cockayne finish, but Old Bordenians pulled one back almost immediately with a first-time finish from the top of the D. Valence continued to push looking to restore their 2 goal lead but couldn't get the ball over the line despite a lot of attacking pressure. Agonisingly Old Bordenians equalised with seconds to go with another first time finish high into the top corner snatching a draw from a game that on balance Valence should have won.
Valence should take heart from the performance and how hard they pushed the League leaders. The over-the-top enthusiasm of the Old Bordenians’ celebrations following their equaliser showed how worried they were by the Valence performance. If Valence had just had a couple of their other regular players available then the result could well have been different.
Valence welcome Anchorians to fortress SV, looking to close out the first half on a high, whilst hoping deadly rivals (Marden) can do them a favour and stop the Bordenian machine! We look forward to welcoming Old Bordenians next year for the return fixture in the penultimate game of the season.

MoM: Aiden Kingsmill - first game, looked very assured

Goals: Cockayne (2)

Team: Scott Montgomery, James Abrahams, James Willmott, Phil Morris, Chris Bailey, Alex Sandberg, Darren Thompson, Aiden Kingsmill, Duncan Field, Alex Hodges, Rob Cockayne, Duncan Wills
Umpire: Bob Bartlett
Match Report by James Abrahams
Next week the 3rd Xl are at home against Gillingham Anchorians 4th Xl