MATCH REPORT

Sutton travelled to Surfleet in a top of the table clash with Spalding on a sunny afternoon in October. The importance of the game reflected by the hordes of travelling fans who made the journey. Missing Fox and Shooter, the team were joined by the returning Jeremy Watt and the expecting Luke Jackson leaving a strong 12 man squad to start the game. Sutton took the game to Spalding and had the best of the early encounters, culminating in a fine finish from Ed White following a Canham short corner shot after 2 minutes. 1-0 Sutton continued to take the game to Spalding and had chances to widen the lead, with Frazer Watt and Will White particularly busy around the Spalding D. Olly Taylor and Ben Hales carried on their fine form from last week and the defence of Adam Taylor, Clarke and Baguley kept Spalding at bay when they did attack. Jackson joined the fray from the bench and was always a positive runner for the side as well as tracking back when needed as both sides produced some quality hockey. Spalding grew into the half and it was clear that they were the biggest test Sutton had had this season so far and they managed to carve out periods of possession which culminated in a couple of short corners, from the second of these short corners they managed to craft a well worked equaliser; beating Sisson who conceded only his second goal of the season so far. 1-1 Half time and chats were had as the side realised they needed to go again. Jackson took this literally and made a mazy run from the half way line into the D and delivered like an experienced midwife to Olly Taylor who finished with a deft touch into the corner of the net after 35 seconds. 2-1 Sutton were resolute in wanting to hold the lead this time – POTM Ed White was imperious in midfield as he worked well with Watt Senior to repel borders and drive forward the side. Baguley and Clarke worked in tandem like synchronised swimmers in matching swimcaps and even young Hales played with a swagger. Sutton scored a third from another short corner the ubiquitous Ed White scored his second from a strangely worked routine and then missed other chances, thus ensuring he did not require to go to the Bar after the game! 3-1 A good win following a good game of hockey from both sides as they will clearly both look to finish in the top half this year. Sutton go into the slip week with 5 wins from 5 – we go again on the 30th.