MATCH REPORT

Sutton 2nds went into this traditional local derby against Spalding with a squad of 13, however were reduced to 12 due to the effect of Global Warming – a new reason for missing a player in this long running, much played fixture! Both sides fielded a healthy mix of experienced and young players and the signs bade well for a good game of hockey. The match began with some competitive end to end hockey as both sides looked to establish a basis to build on. Sutton, having not played for two weeks, were a little rusty to begin with and did not quite have the fluency their passing usual has; Spalding capitalised on this and following a ‘strangely' worked short corner beat Braginton in the goal to make it 1-0. This stung Sutton into action – Baguley, Fox and Jackson were vocal in their organising and encouragement and Sutton began to grasp the momentum. Will White and Batten continued to build on their midfield attacking understanding and the Hales brothers and Croxford worked hard to maintain the Sutton pressure. Ed Hales was especially wispy in the challenge as his strength in the challenge belied his lightweight frame. Fox, returning from his holiday, proved again that at the leisure centre all midfield Rhodes lead to him, whilst Ed White and Clarke put in the hard yards to maintain control. Canham whilst continuing a drought in front of goal a desert heatwave would be proud of did hold the line and play some excellent passes. Jackson began to have more influence on the game and earned a number of short corners following some runs which displayed a level of one handed stick play that was less text book hockey and more text book Hogwarts! As the first half waned, it was no surprise that Batten equalised to make the half time score 1-1. Sutton were equal and had the momentum; Spalding still contributed well to what was a good game but the second half was more Suttons and when Batten scored his second it seemed that the home team would stretch their lead. Profligate finishing however kept the contest honest and whilst chances were made and missed leaving Sutton to spend the last 2 minutes near the corner flag deep in Spaldings half as they protected their lead to ensure all 3 points. Fox on his return was man of the match, with honourable mentions to Jackson, Batten, Eddie Hales and Will White. A good team performance that assured that in a division that has split into 2, Sutton are in the top half.