The first full game of the season saw a tough start at Norbury who’ve started the season well as they quickly took a 1 goal lead. A fine top corner finish by Eddie, fed by George, saw us draw level until Norbury then fired 2 quick goals for a 3 – 1 lead. Generally stronger and more alert we knew we were in for a game! Another assist from George for Sam then a pass from Jamie to George saw us level the 1st Quarter a 3 – 3 – a fragile start and we looked vulnerable.

Sam, struggling with a foot injury played bravely in attack hitting the post following good work from Jack Royle but we failed to close Norbury down time after time as the pulled away with a 6 – 3 lead. It was all too reminiscent of times last year – soft checks and getting pulled out of position saw Norbury hit us on the break. Jamie pulled a goal back but a time out was desperately needed.Immediately we lifted our game as Sam, and then a fine solo goal from Tom saw us level the game before Tom edged us into a short-lived lead. 2 quick goals from Norbury sandwiched another superb solo effort from George – half time – 8 – 8.

Despite giving it his all Sam was unable to continue and hobbled off to the doctors – the boys rallied and 2 great assists from George, both for Tom saw us move into a 10 – 8 lead. 2 good efforts followed from Eddie and we started to wake up – Alex, Joey and Joe were now taking charge from the back and Joey set off on one of his mazy runs. A sterling performance from Toby saw him dive in on several occasions to prevent certain goals. Josh and Ollie H rotated well in midfield as Rick and Mark started to move the boys into different positions.

The final quarter saw us hit our best form and George netted 3 further goals whilst also assisting Tom and Joey – this unselfish play from George will serve us well this year. A late reply from Norbury couldn’t prevent us easing away and it was only right that George netted the final goal in a 15 – 9 win. This was just the type of game we needed and proved we still have much to do as a team. We lost some of our complacency during the game and came out a better team as a result.

As ever, thanks to our hosts Norbury – they play the game in the right way and this was a friendly tie with great discipline and team work by both teams. Today saw another immense performance by George who figured in just about every goal we scored but Man Of The Match this week goes to Tom Brady – moved into a midfield position for this game, covered acres of ground as well as taking some fine goals.