Chelmsford 5s vs Havering 3s

As the in-form team of the club in recent weeks, spirits were high and confidence could be seen both on and off the pitch. With a strong midfield in play, a switch in formation to a 4-3-3 meant that the boys hoped they could find another notch especially in controlling the ball in the midfield area.

The match began in an even manner, with both teams trying to build attacks through a number of passes. Havering were the stronger side, managing to win a number of short corners in quick succession however the forwards were unable to convert due to some brilliant defending from the home team.

Havering would later rue these opportunities however, as Chelmsford pulled ahead first with their forward scoring an outstanding reverse stick hit from the edge of the D to the top of the goal. A shot rarely seen at this level of hockey

Havering continued to battle although were unable to capitalise despite further short corners. It would once again come back to bite them as Chelmsford themselves followed up at the stroke of halftime to make it 2-0 heading into the half

A quick regroup meant that Havering were out the blocks quickly, stringing together a number of flowing moves but unable to provide in the final third. A mistake at the back resulted in a penalty flick, with GK Lonnie Yang unfortunate not to keep out despite a fine dive to his right. The home team would also end the game scoring from another rebounded corner after a string of fine saves from the Havering GK, with the match eventually ending 4-0.

In spite of this however, it should be noted that the 3s seemed to have relinquished last seasons demons from conceding goals. Heads remained clear and intensity was high, a vast improvement from previous years performances. Hard graft was put in across the pitch and the gents were unfortunate to not get a goal themselves despite going against a team with vastly more experienced players.

A special shoutout today to Harry Pengelli and Paul Mitchley also for their first starts with the 3s this year!

FT Chelmsford 4-0 Havering