Battling loss against a strong Ashby team

After a win last week the team were keen to get a winning run going into the League next week. With a strong squad Westleigh were hopeful. The opposition for the day was a mix of Ashby 2,3 and 4s meaning a hard match ahead. Early on, Westleigh passed the ball with purpose and pace which shocked Ashby. Good play with passing on every angle, as per training, meant we won an early short corners. The first strike nearly got to Oliver on the far post but hit a foot so another short corner. This time Dave decided to test the keeper with a shot, the keeper came up 2nd best, as it hit the back of the net. Still Westleigh running riot at times, all the young players linking up with fine play. Rob, taking a new role in the middle doing well but learning on the Job. Lots of changes, which at times meant continuity was dropped but overall those who came soon got into the position. Ashby did get back into the game they had the experience and some strong adults. They got back on terms with two short corners. Westlleigh got back on the score sheet with a great through ball to Toby who first lost it but as he has proved he often fights and wins it back. Some great skill and attack from him set up Joe at the far post. Westleigh went into half time losing 3-2.

Second half, Westleigh returned to their original line up, some sad faces everyone wants to play which is great. First 10 minutes Ashby never got out there half with Westleigh putting a high press and was working. Whilst this didnt create any goals the hockey was very good. The supporters were loving it too and it was great to have some cheer leaders. We did take the lead in the second half from some great play, the ball sat up for Martin Andrews in a position he really misses from, a hard slap hit back of the net. After this possesion, we lost our way and experience won. Westleighs passing started to go ary, the simple passes were not being made. Dave got caught out where you expect him to deal with it, but with a dodgy knee could not respond and they scored. Final minutes were hard as Ashby kept the presure on and score, but lots learnt from the day. A very enjoyable game, but a 6-3 loss.

Man of the match VERY hard this week. For the effort in the middle had never played there my captains vote goes to Robert but heard enough round the table at teas Lachlan came up the most. Well done for your first match
DOD was between 3. Joe and Charley for black socks but yet again Dave keeps his crown for the two goals he gave away.