Team Ashford’s one game non-losing streak came to an end as High Wycombe did a smash-and-grab to take all 3 points back to the frozen, inhospitable tundra of deepest, darkest Bucks.
OK I made most of that up, HW were a well-organised and skilful outfit who deserved certainly on their first half performance to win the game. The most shocking moment was when the trainee umpires turned up and it looked like we had Del Boy umpiring for us, fortunately Mark took off his sheepskin to umpire!! The other problem we had was finding a keeper Sat morning as we lost our 3rd goalie in the week, having said that Stuart Ayling, in his first game in goal this season, played really well and was probably our best player on the day.
It was a really good game as the sides had a similar make-up with HW having a couple more sprogs than us and a couple more subs - they started very well and were playing nice little triangles in midfield. By contrast, the only shapes we were doing were the odd circle and Shaggy was very creative doing a double-helix and ampersand all by himself. We had the first decent chance but Reed’s weak shot from a slipped shortie was easily saved. Ryan glanced a cross just past the post and we had more shorts than HW but it was no surprise when their lad went through 4 of our players and the resultant melee saw it poked home form close range. We got to half time thankful to be one-down.
Second half was much better, HW continued to play prettier hockey but we were much more animated in our play, upped the tempo and dictated the pace of the game particularly in midfield. We created enough chances to have got back and won the game, Rosie hit the post at least once, Shaggy should have scored, Ryan forced a good save and we had more shorts than HW and did force the goalie to make saves. Play was frenetic and we had them worried but we couldn’t get the goal we needed - unfortunately we gave up an avoidable goal with 15 minutes to go and although we never gave up, 2 goals was beyond us on the day….
