MATCH REPORT

Long Sutton fell to defeat against a good St Ives team conceding three goals in the final 15 minutes having fought back to level terms. A much changed team from the previous week took a while to find their way in the game and struggled to cope with the visitors high press and quick breaks from midfield. Late additions Jason Mallet and Matt Holmes showed their quality and physical presence and managed to break down a number of attacks. It came as no surprise when the away team took the lead as the home team failed to clear and despite keeper Matt Braginton's best efforts the scoring was opened with a relatively simple chance from close range. Sutton then improved and did find some forward momentum at the end of the half winning short corners and creating a couple of chances from open play. The second period began with St Ives continuing to dominate but with Sutton enjoying forays up the pitch when they cleared their lines, full backs Dan Oldfield and man of the match Sam Gray tackled well and along with Braginton managed to repel the visiting attack. Will White displayed good touches down the right when the ball reached him and worked hard through the game. The home team got a lifeline when a move down the right found Josh Baker in the circle, he turned his marker and unleased a precise reverse stick shot past the giant visiting keeper for an excellent first goal for the team. Unfortunately this galvanised the visitors and they were quickly back in front against a tiring Sutton team. St Ives made the game safe in the last few minutes with two further goals including an excellent move and goal along the left flank. Hopefully Sutton will be able to move towards a more settled side in the next couple of weeks but must work on clearing the ball from defence better and retaining the ball higher up the pitch for longer spells. Report by Nick Ellis.