SYDENHAMS LEAGUE (WESSEX) DIVISION ONE
SATURDAY 20TH FEBRUARY 2010
VERWOOD TOWN 2 HORNDEAN 1

15 seconds on the clock and Luke Homer slammed a left foot shot that grazed the crossbar. Was this to be our day?

For some inexplicable reason we ambled along for a short time and the game looked scrappy. Horndean looked slightly the better equipped as they passed the ball with a bit more accuracy and had a direct approach on goal.

Martin Newbery read an attack down the middle and linking with Jamison cleared the danger, sparking a counter attack. Evans raced free but the shot went wide.

We developed a bit more flare and passing got better. Arnold forced play and Dyer benefitted from a great pass that swept across field. Dyer's deft touch released Baguley but our 'hitman' shot wide.

Then it was Fawcett's turn to shine as Hordean's reaction was positive taking the game into our area. A rising shot was tipped over and then the resultant corner was finally cleared by Murray.

It was an even share of possession for a while but we had developed a better attitude as the game progressed.

Baguley, Dyer and Homer all tried shots on goal but a good keeper and a resolute defence kept the score sheet clean.

Homer was now making impact. Strong runs down the left and good crosses gave rise for belief that we would go in with a goal under our belt.

We neared the whistle and shuddered a bit as Horndean went close to scoring with a cracking effort from just outside the box, but Fawcett was equal to the challenge and the ball fastened itself in his gloves.

The whistle blew.....0-0.

We kicked off with more purpose and flank play provided the openings.

Homer was still the thorn in Hordean's defence but Dyer's efficiency had them scrambling as deep crosses dropped threateningly in the box.

52 min and Evans was the hero as he fastened on to a cross and a cute lob to the right of the keeper gave us the lead. 1-0.

Baguley went close and then Arnold's dipping shot should have gone in had it not been for a superb save.

Newbery and Jamison worked well and Elysee's pace on the right gave us an extra attacking options. Horndean were quick on the counter attack. Fawcett had to be constantly alert but the back four kept tight.

78 min we went two up following a Kelly through ball to Baguley. Baguley's chip past the keeper should have sealed the game but Hordeans resilience was amazing as they hit back immediately throwing players forward.

Jamison stopped an attack on the left and then Murray hoofed the ball away from the six yard spot as pressure built.

We were pegged back in our half and with five minutes remaining Horndean scored. 2-1.

Now it was a case of hanging on rather than being comfortable. Fawcett saved at the foot of the post then Newbery blocked a full on volley that brought tears to his eyes.

All hands to the pumps. Two minutes to go and Elysee cleared the ball away from the box. Dyer collected and ran the ball to the corner. .

We ground this one out but got the points. 2-1.