Match Report: Men’s 2nd XI 28th Sept

Wimborne 8-3 Yateley

Mens 2s travelled all the way to Wimborne to open their 2019/20 campaign. With a fresh young squad and only 1 sub they knew this game would be difficult but all were well up for the challenge.

In less than a minute a freak deflected goal sent Wimborne ahead and the waters became choppy. Wimborne, fast paced and a strong ability amongst their players, controlled the game for the first 15mins. Yateley’s backs against the ropes, felt a bombardment of attacks and tried their best to create chances of their own. A few close calls from both sides evened the game out.

Wimbourne pieced together 2 perfect chances and slotted them home to take a commanding 3-0 lead. Heads down and determination to change the game, Yateley threw down the gauntlet and, after several more chances being saved by their keeper, they won a short corner. Phil Cundy injected the ball to the top, youngster Ben Hopper stopped and Cam Foan brilliantly dragged the ball into the net. 3-1.

A few tough tackles and frustration then misted over the sides and the game now had passion over flowing. Jake Morgan misjudged his run to get the ball back and had no where else to go but to bundle over his opponent. A harsh yellow, in fairness, but he accepted his 5mins of hell in the sinbin. Yateley, down a player and battling the odds, held their ground - but Wimborne proved too strong. Scoring a further 3 goals in the remainder of the half. 6-1 down at half time and Yateley left contemplating how to slay this formidable beast.

A powerful team talk inspired the men to come out fighting hard for each other and pride for the club. Wanting it more than ever, Yateley pressed hard, passed well and upped their game. Phil Cundy found himself open on the wing and headed at pace for the D. Youngster Louis Farrell eager to score his first goal for the men's 2s made a fantastic run. A well timed ball in from Phil Cundy and a first time sweep lead to Yateley bagging their 2nd goal!

THE screw was turning and again Yateley bombarded with attacks. The beast was beginning to tire and the fightback was on. Ben Hopper putting the ball to his brother Joe across the middle. Joe made a fabulous run and found an open Jake Morgan. Morgan openped up the accelerator and left Wimborne defenders in his dust! 1 on 1 with the keeper and calmly slotted home! 6-3 and Yateley were playing incredible hockey.

However this woke the sleeping beast and with fire in their belly, Wimborne fought back. The talented youngsters carving out chances nailing 3 in a row that Yateley young keeper Sammy battled well to keep out before their striker pounced on a lose ball and tapped home. 7-3. Tired and wounded, Yateley battled hard with hope in their minds, but not long remained. With only 5 mins to go Wimborne's top player waltzed his way into the D and unleashed another fantastic goal for Wimborne. 8-3, but Yateley battled with heart and passion. A proud performance against a very strong side who should battle for the title this year. If you are going to lose... Lose with your heads held high and give them a battle. That's exactly what the men's 2s did.

We go again next week at home to New Forest. Man of the match was Joe Edwards for his fantastic play and impact on the game.