Havering 3s vs Basildon 2s

Havering hosted the Basildon 2s looking to register their first win of the season and get some points on the board. Following a reshuffle of squads and the introduction of some new faces stepping up from the 4th team, work would be cut out for the boys as they took to the field

The game started brilliant for the Home side however, scoring after 2 minutes after some brilliant pressure and press on the opposition back line. A poor pass out from the 16 meant the ball was transferred out wide to Eli Cook, who swept a ball into the back post for a goal by James Willcocks. A particularly breathtaking move made even more rewarding after weeks of practice on the training pitch.

This worked as a wake-up call for the Basildon team however, who gradually found a foothold within the match. A 10 minute spell of Havering under the cosh meant that nerves were never really settled, although an uncharacteristically strong defence meant that Havering were able to weather the storm. With some tired legs in the opposition and some great wing play from James Downey meant that the 3s were able to capitalise on a short corner, with Andy Greenhalgh deflecting through the Basildon GK's legs after a brilliant short corner routine.

Havering went into HT in unfamiliar waters, leading for the first time this season. A quick regroup from the team and a revision of the gameplan ensured that we did not get complacent in the second half.

Starting the second half strongly, Basildon rarely troubled the home keeper, struggling to get past a solid back 4 who were able to find pockets of space and pass the ball calmly and confidently around the back. Making the most of numbers and fresh legs, Havering were able to turn on the style, winning a number of short corners with one eventually being converted again by Andy Greenhalgh at the backpost after a strike from the top of the D to essentially put the game to rest

However, Basildon would eventually respond with a goal after Havering conceded a sloppy short corner - no doubt a result from a good Basildon press and some tired legs in the backline. A fine shot to the bottom right of the keepers goal. A reminder to the home team that a momentary lapse of concentration can be deadly

Ultimately, the Home team ended the match as 3-1 victors, registering their first points of the season and their first win in a very long time. Special mention goes to James Willcocks and Eli Cook for making his first start in the team, whilst the team also welcomed the debuts of Terry Turner and Robert Chart all from the 4th team.

A massive congratulations to the players for a brilliant performance and composure throughout the game. Here's to onwards and upwards!

Final score:

Havering 3s 3-1 Basildon 2s