Blues recovered well to win their first home match of the season against Staines at the Varsity Centre. In beautiful September sunshine the Blues stormed to an early two goal lead with Tom Oldland latching on to an excellent Dan Price free kick and Ed Davis nipping in to nick a goal almost out of the goalkeeper's hands. When Dan & Ed were taken off 15 minutes before half time to rest them for the second period the Blues seemed to implode. Massive holes appeared in the centre of the park and Staines took advantage of this to score two good goals of their own. At half time it was 2-2 and the Blues were on the back foot.
A re-jig at half time saw George move to centre back and Tom to his more familiar role in holding midfield. Jack and Kane came on to reasonably good effect and with Mike Bell getting more of the ball the Blues started to rally. When Dan re-entered the frey with 25 minutes to go we posed much more threat going forward. Fittingly it was Dan who capped of a hugely impressive display with an inch perfect free kick 12 minutes before time. There was still time however for Nathan to pull off a miraculous one handed save to secure three points for Blues.
This has been a good start to the season for the Blues. Dan pulled all the strings for the side today which leaves me a little concerned about what will happen when he eventually returns to the Saints squad, but in previous matches I have seen enough of what the two Mikes can do to know that on our day we can be a force in this division this season. Defensively we need some work as we still get caught too flat footed and are vulnerable to the ball over the top but we know this and we can work on this in training. Good result today. Well done to those involved.
Man of the Match - Dan Price
Dan was by far our best player today, but there was also some good play in the middle of the park. Good passing and tackling ensured the opposition had very few chances.
ReplyDeleteThe Blues going forward were very strong and quick to turn defence into attacking opportunities (straggled to keep up).
I agree with Simon, when Dan goes to the 'A' team, Blues will feel the space left.
Credit to the Blues that closed down the game during the last part of 2nd half.
well done to all, good start for the season, keep the winning ways going.