Redhill Rangers v Christchurch

Match Result: 1 - 3

Goal Scorers: Jamie, Jordyn, Elliott

After a couple of weeks without a game, a depleted squad of just 11 players travelled to Oakmead for this game played in pleasant sunshine. Christchurch started into the wind, but most of the early play took place in the Redhill half and in midfield. Christchurch were seeing a lot of the ball they were unable to show much penetration and really trouble the Redhill keeper, although Elliott made a number of good runs down the right. After 20 minutes, against the run of play Redhill punished Christchurch for their lack of sharpness when a crossfield ball from the left split the Christchurch defence and Luke H was unable to do anything to stop the first time shot from finding the net. Despite this set back Christchurch continued to have more of the play, forcing a couple of corners but the tall Redhill keeper displayed safe hands. The supporters were saying that Christchurch needed an equaliser before half time. It came when a good pass from Keam found Jamie on the right hand side of the penalty area and his clinical finish found the far corner of the goal. A pleasing return after a couple of months out with injury.

Half Time 1 - 1

Although the wind appeared to be dying Christchurch had the advantage of the slope in the second half, and continued to have more of the play. Despite the often robust defending of Redhill, Christchurch started to create some chances and eventually took a deserved lead when pressure led to a corner on the right. Elliott's fine corner was deftly headed by Jordyn and the defenders on the line were unable to prevent the ball crossing the line. Christchurch could have added to the tally when good work on the right of the Redhill penalty area put in Luke M for a shot which beat the keeper, but unluckily hit the junction of post and bar and bounced along the line. Christchurch wrapped up the points when Elliott chased a ball to the byline to cross where Jordyn's run appeared to unsight the keeper and the ball came off him into the net. This was unfortunate for the Redhill keeper who made some good saves and catches during the match. Redhill tried to move forward to get into the game but found the Christchurch defence of Jack, Dan, Noah and Hugh strong, and when they were beaten Luke H made a good save. At the same time chances were being created with Brad working down the left and Elliott the right. Twice Jordyn blasted over when one on one with the keeper and could have had a hat trick!.

Full Time 1 - 3

There was a certain rustiness about the Christchurch play and a lack of players meant that the whole team had to keep going for the full game, but three points is three points. Well done!


Mike Holmes