MATCH REPORT

Long Sutton 2nd put the defeat of the previous week behind them with a comprehensive victory in the first home league match of the season. There was no repeat of the slow starts that had gone before as Sutton raced to a 2-0 lead inside four minutes with Josh Baker lashing home on the reverse before seeing his next effort deflect past the stranded keeper. The home side then played good passing hockey utilising all the players on the pitch and showing patience as well as good skill on the ball. Sam Markillie added the third goal, Gary Hales added the fourth with a sharp finish. The hosts continued to dominate with the midfield moving the ball well with clever play from Jacob Synnott and Will Taylor in the wide positions. Baker was able to complete a hat-trick before half time as Sutton reached the interval with a five goal lead. After a half time talk that focused on trying to keep passing and moving the home side opened the second period as they had finished the first. Despite the Alford keeper making a number of decent saves Sutton added another six goals. Hales completed a hat-trick the pick being an excellent team goal which culminated in Baker laying the ball off for Hales to finish. Will White poached a goal with a decisive touch from at least 10cm out!. Even Adam Taylor having been released from the shackles of his customary defensive role was able to maraud forward and at one stage spotted in the opposition circle. Alford did create some chances in the second half but found keeper Brad Whitmore determined to keep a clean sheet. Stand in captain Simon Clarke drove the side forward to the end, determined to show he was up to laying claim to the coveted vice captains role!. Man of the match was Josh Baker who doubled his tally to six goals in the second half with a performance so far removed in its quality from the previous week that it is hard to believe it came from the same player. Sutton will face sterner tests this week with the visit of Cambs South 2nds with the big decision being do they continue with their new 'Ryder Cup Non Playing Captain' policy.