SONNING 2-2 EASTCOTE
24th November 2007

Sonning Vs were still in search of their first league win of the season as they lined up at the university on a freezing November's day. An inspiring team talk saw the home side beginning brightly with well worked attacks from all over the pitch, and a strong defence dominated by Dave "Tommo" Thompson and Kevin "WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARBS" Warblersonsonson released the full backs to support the search for the goal. Soon the goal came, with Captain Tim gaining first place for best "goal gurn" as he celebrated slotting the ball into the net. The surprise of actually taking the lead took its toll, and Sonning began to lose their shape. Order was reestablished through good communication, unfortunately this wasn't quick enough to prevent Eastcote equalising the game through a short corner slipped to the right post. By half time Sonning had taken good control of the game once more.

Half time score: 1-1

Sonning began the second half in an almost lethargic manner and found themselves defending hard for 3 minutes. Inspiration soon came back however and the pitch seemed to open up for the home side, with good runs from the wide side players and intelligent play from the central midfield resulting in Sonning looking comfortable. Finally the goal came with a great finish from the left post by the non tiring Laurie who had a stormer down the left hand side. Play continued in the same manner, with Sonning looking good and Eastcote's attacks being efficient but well dealt with by the back four. Sadly a scrappy goal was eventually conceded and Eastcote once again had levelled the game with ten minutes to go. Sonning then showed their desire for the victory by piling forwards - Eastcote showed the same passion and a breathless end to the game ensued. Sonning enjoyed the best of the attacks, driving the ball into the D extremely well and winning several short corners. Eastcote relied more on a counterattacking strategy which was well dealt with by the centre back pair, who had linked together very well on Tommo's debut. Despite the hectic play, neither side could score and the game ended 2-2.

Sonning should take a lot of positives from the game, playing intelligent hockey and looking strong throughout - combined with the desire shown by all players, wins will definitely follow very soon.

Man of the match: Dave "Tommo" Thompson who played extremely well on his debut
DOTD: Simon "Under" Thethumbsonbetsonson for not playing because he was "helping his girlfriend move house"

Richard Pegram