SYDENHAMS (WESSEX) LEAGUE DIVISION ONE
SATURDAY 17TH OCTOBER 2020
VERWOOD TOWN 2 DOWNTON 1

We needed commitment and an effort with no passengers. We got it. A 90 + 2 minute effort from an ever improving team was worth the three points won against a very good Downton side.

Tierney gave confidence with a great goal keeping performance and on par with a sterling show from a back four nicely melding as we head through the season.

Downton had a tight formation at the back but had it breached on 14 minutes when Smith released Vining for a run on goal. A good shot was deflected for a corner. Smith followed in a half clearance but had his legs whipped from underneath him – penalty. Vining did the business burying the ball in the back of the net 1-0.

Tackles became harder and Sims was cut down by a high boot going for a loose ball. A bad tackle on 24 minutes earned another penalty and again Vining did what was wanted sending the keeper the wrong way 2-0.

Downton gained territory and Tierney came into his own with good anticipation half way through the half, racing from goal to clear a dangerous through ball upfield.

Watkins and Danvers had their work cut out containing the flanks but with Elsom and Kelly once again showing strength and great resilience at the back we looked in solid shape.

Hall had the measure of his opposite number and put in a great performance.

Towards the end of the half Nicholson went close with a rasping drive and Butler shaved the post with a volley that deserved a goal for its sheer execution.

A rally from Downton just before the whistle had Tierney back in action with a fine flick over the bar.

Half Time 2-0.

Downton’s talk at half time was evident as extra energy was pumped into the game. It was to no avail. Hall and Smith having a tremendous influence in midfield forced the game to the flanks where both Watkins and Danvers earned their stripes.

Zanin had replaced Nicholson and Cooper replaced Sims who went close from another fine Smith move.

On 20 minutes of the half an ‘up ‘n under’ was powered back into the Downton half by Kelly. Butler eased his way past a defender and slipped the ball through to Vining. A cut back found Zanin but the shot went wide.

Zanin was whistled up for offside on 31 and 32 minutes as we pressed forward.

Downton response was another step up in energy and we were pushed back for a spell.

86 minutes of the game gone and Downon’s pressure paid off with a run on their right ,a long deep cross and a header from a yard out 2-1.

It was a nail biting finish but we were worth the 2-1 score line.

Result 2-1.