| Match Report |
This week saw us entertain Haverhill Gold. A full squad was available and, unusually, we kicked downhill first half. An injury to Joseph meant that he was on pitch this week and Rhys kindly agreed to go in goal for the whole match. In the first half he was protected by Samuel and Ollie, with a midfield of Albie (left), Alfie (centre) and Joseph (the midfield being replaced after 9 minutes by Henry, Alex and Patrick) and Flynn as the striker. We largely dominated play and were 2 goals to the good by the time of the substitutions. The first was a well worked goal, with a combination of passes finding Alfie 6 yards out in the middle of the goal. His first attempt was blocked, but the ball rebounded to him and he was clinical with his second. Further reward came following a winding run from Albie from left midfield to the right wing. His cross, to Alfie and Flynn who were free, was unluckily turned into Haverhill’s net by a backtracking defender. Further chances were created and Haverhill’s chances were kept to a minimum, but we were unable to add to our tally and on the stroke of half-time an unfortunate stumble from our goal kick enables a Haverhill forward to run through unchallenged and he finished emphatically. Onto the second half and this time Albie and Alfie were in defence, with a midfield of Patrick (left), Henry (centre) and Alex (the midfield being replaced after 17 minutes by Flynn, Samuel and Ollie) and Joseph as the striker. Playing up hill the game was more even, with both teams creating chances. Rhys played excellently in goal, pulling off one remarkable double save. Good link up play between Joseph and Patrick saw a deflected shot from the latter saw the lead extended, but again we were pegged back when Rhys pulled off a great save only to see Haverhill first to the rebound. Henry got his obligatory goal, winning the ball in midfield before unleashing a great shot from fully 20 yards that rocketed into the net. Following the changes we lost some of our composure - we continued to try and pass the ball, but weren’t moving into space having played a pass meaning that Haverhill were able to take the initiative. Haverhill narrowed the deficit with a thunderbolt of their own, but Elsenham were able to hold on for what was, overall, a deserved victory. We played well, with special mention being given to Rhys, Henry and Albie. Player of the match, however, was given to Ollie, who was exemplary when in defence and continues to improve with every game. Well done everyone though.
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