Great displays from both teams in the Sonning men's league derby

My first game as captain of the M7s, playing in our club derby against the M6s was always going to be a difficult one.

In our team talk before the game, I asked for two things. Firstly and most importantly, we should all have fun. Secondly, we should treat each push back as a 0-0 game, we would always look for the next goal and we would never give up. I pleased and proud to report that the team did not let me down.

The game was heralded by a thunderous crash and downpour. This was going to be a long afternoon.

After a slightly nervous start, we started to press the 6s hard and chased down every possession. We had some early chances with Jay and Michael up front and gave notice to the opposition that this was not going to be an easy game.

With Rhys in goal and the defensive four of Dave L, Andy Fry, myself and (good see him back) Steve O, we faced an onslaught of attacks from the 6s offence. This was always going to be a game of making the score respectable. Keeping the score to 4-0 down at half time was a creditable achievement.

The midfield was kept solid with Eddie B at the bottom of the diamond, working his usual magic, supported by some great play down the left from Russ S and good channels from Simon C on the right. Up the centre, Jon was always chasing and harrying the 6s back line.

Half time was welcomed and we were pleased with the team effort and made a couple of tactical changes.

The second half started with the same level of intensity and putting extra pressure on the 6s play maker proved effective. We were grateful for the additional support from Martin Baker, who gave us both a chance to give players a bit of a breather, but brought some stability to the back four. (I hope we can persuade him to play again for us in the future).

The second half was a much more balanced affair. Short corners were traded at each end and the game was a lot more open for much of the half. An unfortunate incident towards the end of the half saw Jerry of the 6s injured, and we lost Eddie (taking on the nursing role).

In the last 5 or so minutes, we ran out of puff and the 6's got 3 easy goals to end the game 0-8.

It was a well fought game, played by both sides in a respectful way. I felt we could have nicked a couple of goals during the game and the final score doesn't do us justice. Well done and well played by both sides.

The 6s may claim to be the most best looking side in the Ning, but after our performance on Saturday , the Mighty 7s are going to claim to be the most spirited!

MOTM: Andy Staig (although I think the whole team deserve it this week)
DOTD: Steve Old - leaving water bottle pitch-side

Andy Staig

Ps I understand that we are short of numbers for 2.45 pushback away at Slough next Saturday , so if you can help out, please let the Captains/Alison Denham know.