Basically, the boys played great and showed they can compete at this level
Top v Bottom and Ashford found probably their best form of the season against the league leaders, Spencer, but fell agonisingly short of getting something out of this game.
Early doors, it looked the same old story with the game being fairly even but Spencer taking the lead after 15 minutes but the expected floodgates never opened as the Red-and-Blacks first held the midfield to give their defence some respite and started to dominate midfield. Inspired by a tour-de-force midfield performance from skipper Lukey Cottrell, they started to push the league leaders back and it was no surprise when a sweeping move prompted by teen sensations Phil Thelip and Shanie White was finished clinically by Matty Emmerton.
The game really opened up with ‘keeper James Wheeler on top form and Ashford continued to play with passion and belief but were unable to get their noses in front, Spencer converting a shortie before they broke away to add a 3rd. Ashford never gave up and White zipped home a drag flick to set up a barnstorming finish with Spencer forced back into their half for the remaining last 10 but they showed why they are top with resolute defending and a terrific save denied coach Mahony in the last minute to seal the points and retain their top position.
Coach Dunc Mahony hailed this as a fantastic effort by his inexperienced charges saying after the game ‘the boys relaxed and played quick, skilful team hockey and had the top team on the backfoot for much of the game. We have got to continue this form into the last game before the break and come out blazing next year. ‘
