The 5th Development XI travelled to the seaside to take on Alford Development in a game that the travelling side did well in but couldn’t take advantage of the opportunities that they created.
With half of the squad playing in the East League against tough opposition, there was always going to be a knock-on effect with both mental and physical fatigue showing but to those players credit, they did well in these circumstances.
Spalding defensively were strong limiting their hosts to a handful of chances with goalkeeper Steve making a couple of important saves. Defenders Sam, Kev, Andy, & Alex who had played the day before, kept their line well.
The only negative point of the match is when James had to limp off in the first half with a reoccurrence of a hamstring injury. All being well, this should heal quickly, and the team looks forward to seeing James back on the pitch.
In midfield, Rafa, Dylan moved the ball with Si on the left flank having an excellent game, with some strong tackling and passing. On the opposite right flank, Isaac had one of his best games for the club, with a superb performance deservedly winning man of the match with his excellent passing, tackling and, movement off the ball.
Will was unlucky not to add to his fifth team tally as he shot narrowly wide of the post on several occasions whilst Harry got himself into some excellent positions and had one shot very well saved by Alford’s goalkeeper. Jake also got several shots away, but it was one of those games where things didn’t quite gel and Spalding couldn’t find the back of the goal in the match.
It would be completely unfair not to mention how well Alford had played, considering it was the first time a sizeable number of their players had played a full pitch, so Spalding were given a good game by their hosts, played in excellent spirit. A huge thank you to Alford for hosting and Spalding will look forward to a return game at Surfleet.
Overall, a good performance with some really good passing and movement in stages and something to build upon as the team improved and keeps gelling.
The fifths now have a week off and all being well will be back into action early March.