Written by Callum Rudman
Two weeks at the top!
The Rocks remain at the summit after convincing 3-1 win at home to Hatfield Peverel.
The match began very similarly to many of the league leader’s matches this season; lots of intense pressure to maintain possession and control. This constant high intensity allowed Tommy Barnacle to break through chasing the ball with only the keeper to beat. Unfortunately the ball just got away and rolled out for a goal kick. This didn’t dishearten the home side however as soon after, a spell of quick passing around the box gave Harry Prince time and space to take a shot which flew into the back of the net.
This lead wasn’t enough for the Rocks, as they immediately went on the search for a second. Beautiful link up play between the attacking players gave the home side many chances to put the ball away, but for now they were unable to find that finishing touch. Luckily the hosts didn’t have to wait too long to double their lead, with Harry Prince scoring straight from a free kick, delightfully curling it around the wall, squeezing it into the keeper’s left-hand corner. The hosts dominated the first half continuing their relentless attacks and were rewarded again with a third goal with Faith Segemani getting himself onto the scores sheet after the ball wasn’t cleared from a corner. However, after this the visitors gave themselves a lifeline as they got one back immediately after kick-off.
The second half was much more relaxed for the hosts as they looked to maintain their lead, rather than searching for more. This approach allowed Hatfield to have more opportunities to close the gap, however the back line was able to keep the score as it was. The Rocks did come close to extending their lead a few times, but the visiting keeper pulled off some tremendous saves to deny them. Another goal for the hosts seemed certain as the ball was played across the box into the path of Bailey Morris. Unfortunately, he was an inch short and the ball rolled away from him and was cleared away. Despite these chances for both sides the second half stayed goalless, and the match ended 3-1.
Next up is a home cup tie against Thorpe Athletic on Saturday 13th September at Wyldecrest Sports Country Club.
LINEUP:
1 Tommy Bruley
2 Lewis Gardener
5 Faith Segemani
6 Marcus Bella
7 Bobby Reeman
8 Tom Barnacle
9 Ross Barnes
10 Kieron Miles
12 Zac Bussell
16 Kieran Case
20 Harry Prince
SUBS:
3 Louis Sharkey
11 Bailey Morris
17 Joey Purdy
18 Lewis Rowe
21 Harry Salter