Reading 4th XI 1 – 2 Sonning 1st XI

Sonning began their 2019-20 season with the short trip to Reading HC where they played what must be the highest ranked 4th XI in the country. With SHC’s 2nd XI not in action this week, skipper Jonty Rider was able to bring a full complement of 16 players, including a debut for Nick Leach formally of Oxford Uni 1st XI.

During pre-season, despite registering some wins, Sonning had struggled to find an early rhythm in their games. Today however they came out the traps well and pinned their opponents back; dominating possession and pressing successfully. Sonning’s forwards turned over possession high up the pitch on a number of occasions. They did get some strikes away and were able to win several penalty corners where they came as close as hitting the left post, but ultimately Reading despite fielding a bare XI, were able to hang on for 0-0 at half time, using their aerial threat well to relieve pressure at restarts and create a handful of half chances on the break.

Encouraged by a strong first half performance, and unperturbed by the 0-0 scoreline, Rider, along with player/coach Neil Pursell sent their side out for the second half for more of the same, with just the final touch being required. However, against the run of play it was Reading who scored first. A crash ball and the slightest of deflections from an onrushing striker unbalancing keeper Ben Sully, and Reading had the lead 1-0.

It took two minutes for Sonning to equalise with a short corner being converted well by Patrick Thomas for 1-1. This was followed by long spells of pressure by Sonning, who were making their additional numbers count against a now tiring Reading side.

The winning goal came around the hour mark. Midfielder Callum Richardson turned over position on Sonning’s right wing, before feeding the tireless Ian Finlayson. He drove into opposition territory before crossing to what appeared to be a queue of Sonning strikers. It was Noel Plant who got there first for a sweet deflection into the roof of the net.

The score finished 1-2 and while Sonning will be happy with the points, they will surely look to be more clinical next week in a tough potential clash against a Banbury 2nd XI against whom they’ve had numerous competitive encounters in the last few years.

#COTN

Squad: Ben Sully, Neil Pursell, Jonty Rider, Sam Terry, Patrick Thomas, Matt Sloper, Ian Finlayson, Callum Richardson, Ed Williamson, Huw Thomas, James Manser, Noel Plant, James Lockhart, Ian Gallagher, Nick Leach, Chris Hinton

Goalscorers: Noel Plant, Patrick Thomas

MOTM: Ian Finlayson

DOTD: Huw Thomas