Hadlow United Vrs FC Sporto

23rd January 2005 (WKSL)

Hadlow made the short trip to Hadlow college to face FC Sporto in a top of the table clash. Grundy and Wood returned to bolster the squad replacing Bellars and Garside.

Hadlow started okay, winning many throw-ins deep in Sporto territory and Webb missing a chance from an accurate Excell through ball. After 15 minutes the games main talking point arose when Sporto scored from a quick free-kick whilst the referee was still moving the wall back, oblivious to play. Hadlow were raging at the decision to allow the goal to stand and Grundy and Webb were booked for their troubles. Though it took Hadlow a while to re-compose themselves they eventually equalised via a strong run by Grundy, who was linking well with Wood down the left, was deflected into the net by a Sporto defender. Hadlow were having more possession but creating few chances with it and Sporto scored two goals on the break, the second a great individual effort, to make the score 3-1 at the break and this could have been worse with Kerton making a great save.

Hadlow started the second half more positively and controlled the game but again had few clear chances. Grundy went close with a shot before also failing to score when one on one with the keeper. The Sporto keeper then tipped a shot from Harvey over the bar before another break away goal by Sporto effectively decided the outcome. Hadlow continued to have the lions share of possession with Grundy going close with a free kick shot comes cross. Final score 4-1.

Though the result was disappointing Hadlow completely controlled the midfield but were undone by some speedy attackers. Hadlow showed a good spirit and continued to battle against the odds. Next week sees East Peckham Predators visit to Williams Field in another tough match in which defender David Carlton may make his long awaited return from injury.

Team: Kerton, Walsh, Cooper, M. Betts, Bridges, Harvey, Excell (Bellars), Leach, Wood (Garside), Grundy (1), Webb

Sub Not Used: Cook