Report: 1st XI Men vs Ely City 1s – January 24, 2026

Ely 1s 3 – 6 Spalding 1s

Spalding travelled away to Ely for their second game of 2026 and looking to continue in the same manor that 2025 ended.

The squad looked to start strong however fell victim to the speed Ely brought to the table and conceded 2 early goals despite the best effort of Oscar Haunch in goal. Spalding struggled to get through the gears but were able to get one back through Matthew Hulme who tapped the ball across the line. 

Halftime came and the lads came together, roused by the words of the captain Sam Howitt and thought about how to get out of a situation they haven’t faced all season, being in a losing position after 35minutes.

The words spoken clearly resonated within the team as after only a few minutes of the whistle blowing, James Grant was able to draw us level, flicking the ball over the goalkeeper after a strong run from Jacob Baker. Momentum seemed to swing back to Ely however as they were able to to go ahead again.

Spalding gathered themselves and after a fantastic tackle at one end of the pitch, Harry Maplethorpe charged forward and drew us level yet again. Dan Azzopadi then put Spalding ahead after rounding the goalie. Matt Hulme then grabbed another goal for his brace with a backhand rattling the backboard.

Harry Maplethorpe continued to hold the line with some fantastic tackles, which in turn allowed the forwards to press home and add to the advantage with Will Wright firing home the teams 6th of the day, a scoreline that would stand at the final whistle.

A great show of character and determination from the team to see off another tough opponent. Onto next week at home

MoM – Harry Maplethorpe