Hadlow United Vrs Pembury 'A'

19th October 2003 (WKSLJC)

United came into this match as the underdogs, but in good spirits.  The treatment room is starting to empty out and it was good to see Garside back in the squad after a lengthy lay off.

The game started fairly evenly with few chances at either end, all of Pembury's attacks were targeted at their right winger who got no change from Wood as he put in a Man of the Match shift at left back.  After fifteen minutes the effective Walsh slid the ball through and Webb finished the move off to give United the lead, unfortunately this was to be Walsh's last contribution as he left the field with his re-occurring ankle injury.

Leach then stole the show with a brilliant 20 minute hat-trick including a delightful chip from the edge of the area.  Webb added a second to his tally and although United had worked extremely hard, were slightly bemused to be coming off 5-0 up at half time.

Fifteen minutes into the second half Excell increased the lead to 6 after capitalising on a goalkeeping error.  The only goal United conceded was through a penalty after Miles was adjudged to have felled a player on the edge of the area.  Ten minutes after that United won a penalty after a deep corner was hung up Goldsmith was fouled and Webb completed his hat-trick.

Muir who replaced the injured Walsh had great game down the right flank and continually threatened to open the defence up throughout the second half, along with Goldsmith who started his first game of the season and was equally impressive.  Webb gave way for the returning Garside for the last 15 minutes and showed no ill effects from his injury.

 

Team: Miles, Shimell, M.Betts, Carlton, Wood, Harvey, Walsh (Muir),  Leach (3), Excell (1), Goldsmith (Race), Webb (3)(Garside)