Mens 4 v cambs south

We came, we saw, we conquered and we did, despite the inauspicious WhatsApp exchanges of the previous 24 hours, when it was not even clear if we would have 11 players. In the end we were spoilt with 12, giving us all opportunity for much needed respites on another unseasonably warm autumnal day.

The first half started promisingly, as it continued for most of the game, except for the final 15 mins when our nerves and maybe our apparent lack of pre-season fitness training took its toll. We ran, found spaces and passed the ball well between players.

From the start the back line handled the aerial assault from the Cambridge 16 yard free hits well, starting each wave of attacking play. The midfield and forwards then enjoyed the opportunity they were offered to show their prowess, with ceaseless running and probing. All our efforts were capped by a fine score on the edge of the D from Ben Brittain as he let fly. 1-0 Dragons.

Unfortunately our lead did not last long as Cambridge restored parity. Despite this, Dragons continued to press, hitting the post from an acute angle and creating other opportunities but were unable to further capitalise to score that elusive second goal.

So the half time whistle blew. We congregated and were given a fitting half time talk on tactics from our on field captain Paul Curtis.

The second half took off from where the first had finished. The Dragons moving into space, putting slick moves together but unable to find the net. But then, not unlike London buses, not one but two goals came in relatively quick succession with goals from Tim Kisiel and Davin Foston. A fourth goal was then unluckily ruled out for an apparently high elbow prior to a cross and finish. The players were wondering when Bourne Deeping would invest in VAR technology.

The game continued and Cambridge scored a second, which resulted in a rather nervous final 15mins as Dragons dug deep and hung in for their first, much deserved points of the season, a 3-2 win.

A good team performance from all