Report: 1st XI Men vs St Ives 1 – November 25, 2023

Spalding v St Ives

The pitch had finally defrosted, allowing the men’s 1st XI to take on 2nd in the league St Ives.

The game started with both attacks being on top with some end to end action. Opportunities were plentiful for Spalding with good opportunities, Dan Azzopardi eventually taping a deflected pass into the back of the net. 

St Ives bounced back with a quick counter attack with their striker dribbling from midfield through the spalding defence with a smart finish past the Oscar in goal. 

The first half continued in a similar fashion with Spalding playing some good hockey and St. Ives countering effectively. A short corner was converted by Stu Cunnington and another well finished goal by Dan Azzopardi at the back posy were both matched with a quick counter and a well worked goal from St Ives, leaving the game level at 3-3 at half time.

The second half was played at a similar intensity, with both teams having opportunities. This intensity lead to several cards throughout the second half before both sides, leading to opportunities at both ends. 

After many well placed passes whistling across the D, one eventually fell to Will Baker, who took the ball calmly around the goal keeper before flicking the ball past two defenders on the line. 

St Ives again bounced back. However, after a short corner decision, which left a few Spalding players scraping their heads, the first short was well saved by Oscar but unfortunately deflected onto Will Steed’s foot. The subsequent short hit the post man’s knee, leading to a penalty stroke. This was then convered leaving the game 4-4. The final 10 minutes provided a frantic after, with both teams’ defensive units scrambling in turn.

Ultimately, though, neither of the attacks could secure the winning goal. 

A hard fought draw for both teams means the points were shared.

Spalding 4 St Ives 4

MoM – Harry N

DoD – Will Steed