Hadlow United Vrs Greenoak Cross Keys

3rd October 2004 (WKSFL Junior Cup Rnd 1)

Hadlow entertained Greenoak Cross Keys from division 6 in the first round of the Junior cup, which contains teams from divisions 4 to 6, on a very wet morning. Two changes were made to last weeks team with one Betts in and one out. Phil being replaced by Magic on the right wing and Matt being fit to resume his central defence partnership with Carlton in place of manager Cook.

Greenoak started well using their pacey strikers and right winger to good effect. Hadlow were getting beaten for pace often and the pressure told when Greenoak took the lead midway through the first half. Either side of the opening goal, 'keeper Kerton had saved Hadlow on many occasions, adding to his reputation as a great one-on-one exponent.

Hadlow gradually got more into the game with Leach missing a few chances before he finally netted from close range after good wing play by Webb. With 5 minutes till half time a stupendous ball from Walsh was taken down by Webb who beat the keeper from the acutest of angles. Hadlow went off for their half-time oranges thankful for their keeper's efforts and knowing that they needed to up their game if they were take anything meaningful from the encounter.

The second half resulted in a highly improved performance from Hadlow. Phil Betts replaced Magic and Hadlow were firmly in control. A quick throw from Walsh was taken on by Leach who thumped a marvellous shot in from the edge of the box for his second and Hadlow's third. The fourth was not far behind when Harvey capitalised after Cooper had headed on a corner, a weapon Hadlow are increasingly using this season with Cooper now in midfield.

With the game under control Cook brought himself on for Matt Betts and Excell had his first 20 minutes of the season after recovering from ankle ligament damage, replacing Leach. Hadlow's midfield were in complete control and creating lots of chances, three of which were wasted by Webb and Greenoak scored from a rare second half chance that raised their spirits for the final ten minutes. However their hopes were dashed when Webb finally got his second after a mistake in the Greenoak defence.

So Hadlow progress to the next round to face Tonbridge Town, a familiar foe. Today's game was played in a good spirit with both sides working hard and playing fair.

Team:

Kurten, Walsh, Carlton, M.Betts (Cook), Bridges, Bellars (P.Betts), Cooper, Harvey (1), Wood, Leach (2) (Excell), Webb (2)