Ashford Scorers:
Jamie McFarlane FG (2mins), Alex Barlow FG (51mins)
Looking for our first consecutive wins of the season we played host to the boys from Purley Walcountains. We were expecting a close battle with the team from Banstead as we were on even points on the ladder but they were ahead of us in terms of goal difference. We knew that this is the type of game that we need to win. It’s the close ones that are going to make the difference for us this year.
The first 15 minutes of the match were dominated by the Red and Blacks with great field positions and strong attack on the Purley defence. It appeared that we may have the upper in the match after Jamie McFarland scored an impressive field goal just 2 minutes into the game after James Webber and George Clutton combined beautifully from the midfield. As though we let our guards down the joy was very short loved. Purley caught us napping in defence and managed to counteract our goal only three minutes later. We managed to penetrate the circle numerous times throughout the first half but couldn’t follow it up with a goal. After the disappointment of allowing Purley one goal we rallied in defence and limited the opportunities for them to be in a scoring position.
At half time we reflected on the success of our attack and also on the fact that we allowed ourselves a lapse in concentration which let the opposition back in the game. We were determined to go back into the game and capitalise on our opportunities.
Early into the second half we endured major disruptions to our line-up when Ben Washer went off after he injured his hamstring and young Joe Lewis could not overcome his recurring knee problems despite his gallant efforts. As if this wasn’t enough Justin ********* was forced to play the majority of the game with a badly injured wrist. After a number of close scoring opportunities that should have been “sure things” we became more determined to be victorious and take the three points on offer. The intensity of the game was apparent as both teams were limited to one penalty corner for the second half, however the Ashford defence stepped up and severely reduced the number of circle penetrations of the Purley forwards. Our determination and perseverance paid off in the 51st minute when Alex Barlow slotted a seemingly easy field goal to put us back in front by a goal. The final 20 minutes of the match were fierce and fast with both teams desperate to score. The score remained unchanged for the duration of the game.
