MATCH REPORT

With three games left to the season, champions elect Sutton entertained a visiting youthful Ely side who travelled with 14 players. The game started well and whilst Sutton dominated the game to their credit Ely battled well and frustrated Sutton with their enthusiastic press and hard work. Sutton themselves had a squad of 14 this week with Troy Croxford joining the 13 men from last week. As usual Baguley commanded the defence ably assisted by Taylor and Hales, who over the season has developed well within the team. Clarke hardly broke sweat as he put in a flawless performance, losing no tackles throughout the entire match. Meanwhile between the sticks, Sisson continued his improvement over the season and once again treated the watching crowd to a diving save. The young call-ups of Smith and Croxford worked hard and as usual the midfield general Fox whilst not as commanding as the previous week certainly made sure Ely met their Waterloo. Up front Will White, Batten and Hagan were very lively as Canham held up the play to form a pivot. As usual Ed White and Fraser Watt put good performances to continue their fine form this season. However whilst Sutton did dominate, their performance was not as polished as the last game, though they were clinical in front of goal and this was reflected in the final margin. A game played in excellent spirit ended up with a 9-1 victory for the home team, with a 4-0 lead at half time and Sisson losing his clean sheet as 8-0 late in the second half. The goals were shared around the team with Player of the Match Hagan scoring 4 and Ed White, Will White, Batten, Fox and Canham chipping in one each. Some of the goals were well put together and finished well. It was hard not to feel for Ely as they worked hard and played some good hockey; on another day they may not have got anything from the game but the margin would definitely be less. Sutton were perhaps a little frustrated at the end of game with the way they had played; which surely is testament to how well the team has grown over the season. 9-1 is still 9-1 by anyone's standard.