WYVERN LEAGUE DIVISION ONE (WEST)
SATURDAY 27th JANUARY 2018
VERWOOD TOWN 1 CHRISTCHURCH 0

The pitch had stood up remarkably well to the heavy downpours preceding the game. That and Martin Gilham’s expertise with a spade and pitchfork was the clincher enabling the Ref to declare the game ON.

Christchurch was first to attack with a run down their right. Oxtoby cut out the threat with a strong tackle but having to give away a throw in. The throw was marshaled out of the box by Hawkins.

A good run down our left by Williams finished with a good cross but Webber’s bullet header whistled over the bar.

Christchurch edged play at this stage but with Mason’s tenacity and Gilham’s midfield bite the threat on Daniel’s goal was curtailed.

A Williams Laundon link almost broke through the Christchurch defensive shield half way through the half, but Christchurch proved to be an impenetrable barrier.

Towards the end of the half both goalkeepers made a couple of good saves as the game opened up. Tabor went close with a dipping volley and Gale agonized as his header grazed the bar.

Half Time 0-0

Ben Oxtoby came off to give Lewis Keeping a run at the start of the half. Keeping’s first contribution was five minutes later when he slammed a shot just wide from a Laundon corner.

Mason and Hawkins were involved in a flurry of activity as Christchurch tried to push through the middle but they held firm.

60 minutes Tabor made way for Corrier

Gilham’s tackle was judged to be a tad ‘rough’ on 54 minutes and a free kick was awarded on the edge of the box. The free kick dropped on the spot but Webber had spotted the danger and a good strong header cleared the area.

66 minutes Laundon made way for Wilson giving all three subs game time.

Christchurch pushed us back. Tackles got heavier and with 17 minutes left three players were booked as hand bags were flourished. Gilham’s exchange of dandruff with his opposite number resulted in a free kick.

A minute later it was another strong Christchurch tackle that gave us a free kick. The ball dropped in the six yard box. Boots flew trying to connect and the final set of studs attempting clearance wrong footed the keeper for an own goal. 1-0.

10 minutes left and Webber’s back heel freed Wilson on the flank. A through ball found Keeping. A low angled shot on target was well taken by the keeper.

Christchurch threw everything into the last few minutes but with Danvery Webber Mason and Hawkins in good defensive form we kept the score board at 1-0

Scorrier’s energy helped staunch late Christchurch runs.

Gale sparkled with a minute left but his volley was well taken by the keeper.

Result 1-0.