Match result: Christchurch 1 v Greenfields 3

Goal Scorer – Jack C

This was another tough match against a top ‘4’ side. It was a hard fought game that with a bit of luck Christchurch could well have drawn.

We started the game with a formation to nullify the known strengths of Greenfields. We used Calum as a holding midfielder just in front of the back 4. The plan was to use the width of the pitch and push the ball wide to utilise our strengths on the flanks. To be honest this was only a partial success, in the end route one, a long over the top played on to our strikers was our most effect weapon.

The first half was hard fought with both sides battling for position and territory. Our defence Dan, Phil, Stu and with Marley acting as sweeper managed to contain the quick Greenfields attack. Finn in Goal played a key part in keeping us in the game. At the other end we had several swift decisive attacks which ended with attempts on goal by Jack C and Miles. However on the stroke of half time we failed to clear a Greenfields corner and they scored from the resultant goal line scramble 0-1

Half Time 0-1

The game was still being keenly fought early in the second half with the midfield Bradley Sam Calum and Miles all working hard in attack and when necessary in defence. Greenfield went 2-0 up from a penalty after a trip in the box. Finn saved the initial penalty but was beaten as his parry fell kindly for Greenfields striker. The Christchurch strikers both Jonathan and Jack C were getting more opportunities and had a good penalty shout turned down. The game was fairly even at this stage we were beginning to threaten their goal with a ball over top for our strikers to run on to. Then unfortunately we went 0-3 down after a misplaced defensive header found a Greenfield striker in too much space to miss. Christchurch continued to play well and Jack C had several good attempts on goal that were either saved or blocked. Opportunities continue to be made and from one of these a long ball down the left found Jack C in space and from a tight angle he shot over the keeper into the net 1-3. We continued to press and looked the more likely scorers but ran out of time.

Man of the Match – Jack C