Like the weather, this game was bright to start with, clouded over at times, but ultimately didn’t leave us sodden. Against an ever-determined Heaton Mersey, Mellor produced a win that looks on paper strong, but failed to bring out the best of the home team, despite not losing a quarter.

Eddie Liles set the tone for a strong personal game with the first goal, assisted by Finn Howey, whilst Miles Plant also hit the score sheet early, before Heaton Mersey reminded the home team that they were not to be underestimated by pulling one back. Finn then spotted a cutting run from Ellis Booy, who slotted in well to make it 3-1, before James Kennedy robbed the Heaton Mersey goalie of the ball to slot in for a 4-1 quarter lead.

The second quarter saw Mellor spend much of the time playing a man down following a number of infringements and this allowed Heaton Mersey to score three goals, equalled by Mellor. Eddie bagged his second goal, assisted by Miles P, whilst Charlie Hodgson broke through a crowd to open his account, assisted by James K, before a storming run and impressive long shot into the bottom corner by James Smith. Half time saw the home team maintaining a three-goal advantage at 7-4.

Heaton Mersey continually showed intent and they score the first goal of the second half to close to 7-5, but from there, Mellor went through the gears to score ten unanswered goals. Ollie Bielecki had a great game in defence, along with the ever-strong Robbie Wilson, whilst Fredrick Jenkins maintained an assured presence in goal. But it was the middies and attackers who put Heaton Mersey to the sword in the second half, as Eddie, Finn and Miles P bagged two more each, including Ellis assisting Finn before moments later Finn replaying the favour for Ellis to score again. Charlie also added another, before Sammy Chalmers capped a great game with the final goal after a decisive break.

Whilst this wasn’t Mellor at its best, the whole squad contributed to a good result. Theo Crowthers was a constant threat, whilst Miles Qualter never stopped running in midfield and Seb Ogley kept the Heaton Mersey defence on their toes.

The score 17-5 final score somewhat flattered Mellor and this was far from a polished performance. However, the boys responded to the excellent coaching from John Howie and found the drive and technique to grind out a good win.

Man of the match – could go to a number of player but Eddie Liles’ four goals nicks it.