The fifths succumbed to only their second defeat of a season as they lost by the odd goal in three against Wisbech. Playing against a very good side with experienced first to third team players in their side, the side put in a superb performance and can consider themselves unlucky not to come away with at least a draw.
Spalding started under the cosh but just about held their own with Sam, Kevin and Kian in defence standing firm with some perfectly timed interceptions and tackles, all having brilliant games. Alex in an unfamiliar central defensive midfield role, had an excellent game in support with a series of tackles and passing that broke up the play and set Spalding up on the counter.
Danny in goal, making only his second appearance in the kit, showed his versatility with a series of saves including a couple of stunning close range reflex saves when the defence was finally breached by good play by the home side that ultimately brought him the MOM award.
However, for all of the hard work, Spalding slipped a relatively soft goal to give Wisbech reward for their pressure. However, this simply made the travelling side roll up their sleeves and all of a sudden, Spalding were putting the pressure on. The midfield and forward line worked tirelessly with the hard-working Isaac on the right flank, starting to really push on and moved the ball well.
On the opposite flank, Harry had another excellent game showing his huge progress in the last few months with accurate passing and moving and the experienced duo of Pete and James controlling things in the centre.
Will had another superb game with some great running off the ball, dribbling and passing whilst Jake had a great game where he held the ball up well, and passed on to the oncoming midfielders with accuracy.
Dylan supporting the forward line, ran and ran all game, and deservedly got on the goal scoring list after a great move by the side ended in a short corner award. The ball was despatched with aplomb to bring the away side level that rewarded their hard work to get to that stage.
However, cruel luck saw the away side go behind again when a cross field ball fell perfectly to the first team player in Wisbech’s side via Andy’s inadvertent foot. The skill level told as he beat three of the defense, before slipping the ball wide for a tap in. It was tough luck for the side as they had started brightly.
The side though never gave up. But it wasn’t to be despite some brilliant play again by the unit. Fred who had come on, had a great game on the right hand side and was interacting with Pete and James in midfield well.
And this interaction led to again some flowing moves that involved Will, Jake, Isaac and Dylan amongst others that led to short corners. But it wasn’t to be as the shots were well saved by the goalkeeper or went fractionally wide. As the game wore on, Spalding grew tired but still kept going and kudos to them for their attitude.
So, the fifths fell to only their second defeat of the season, but the development side can hold their heads high. They played some very good hockey and gave their counterparts a game.
Thanks go to Wisbech for being superb hosts in a wonderful friendly environment that can only benefit both clubs.