Spalding took on their counterparts from Peterborough in their first game of 2025 looking to build on the momentum that had built up prior to Christmas.
It was a challenging game for the young side, as Peterborough had a lot of experienced senior players that ultimately saw the travelling side come away with the win, however the young Spalding side did extremely well (at times with only two senior players outfield) and played their socks off despite the bitter cold. The 6-1 scoreline at the end, could have been so much different but for some excellent saves by the travelling sides goalkeeper with the highlight being a diving save to deflect a goalbound shot just wide.
Defensively Spalding did very well with Sam, Kian & Alex both showing great tenacity in their tackling against some very experienced senior forwards with Kev guiding and helping. Steve in goal made some great saves and was unlucky with a couple of the goals conceded. The midfield worked tirelessly with Will, Dylan, Isaac, James and Clive playing some neat hockey in patches abily supported by Matthew & debutant James whilst the welcome return of Cheston from injury alongside Harry, Rob and Jake battled hard against far more experienced senior defenders.
Spalding’s goal was also something to be celebrated as well. A stunning short corner strike from Dylan found the bottom left hand corner of the goal however it must be noted that all of the organisation came from the juniors themselves, no senior involvement at all that is exactly what the development team is about
Huge thanks go to the umpires Willem & Henry for umpiring in a superbly contested and very friendly game played in the right spirit by both sides.
The 5ths have a break for a little while and should be back action in early February in the next series of friendlies.