Too many mince pies

It was so good to get back on the astro after the Christmas break for our rerun of our abandoned game against 2nd the table Oxford 9s. It was equally good to see the core Mighty7s players turning out in force.

From the outset that Oxford, it was clear that had a strong and skilful midfield and we were soon under pressure. But our defence was solid and we were definitely a match for them. Although they probed around, they rarely made it into the D and we then made some great counterattacks.

We were harshly penalised with a short corner for intentionally putting the ball behind. The umpire could not be convinced that Owen never puts the ball intentionally anywhere!

Towards the end of the half, they finally broke through and tapped into the net. Undaunted however we quickly struck back and Bos stuck a reverse stick into the Oxford goal! We finished the half at 1-1 and I was optimistic that we could walk away with a victory.

The second half exposed the error of my gameplan. I had sacrificed my midfield for a stronger defence and a lack of organisation across the team led to many of the team playing out of position. The Oxford midfielders dominated the middle of the pitch and despite a valiant effort by the defence, it was only a matter of time before they broke through and eventually had a relatively simple tap in.

Final score was a credible 2-1, but it was difficult not feel that once again it was on that had got away. We simply didn't have the legs or the structure to overcome the opposition.

After the game, the team were in a feisty mood, where "only scored a goal" was sufficient evidence for a DOTD nomination! and shocking the umpires - I don't think they will sit with us again!

MOTM: Chris Skinner
DOTD: Tim (aiding the opposition)

Next week we have Bicester at home - PB 13.30. Team selection and tactics to be based on the team survey, so get your votes in now!