24th Nov 2018 Mens 1st v Newcastle University(Away) 3 - 2 win
Ben Rhydding travelled to Newcastle missing a couple of key defenders and pulled out a gritty and professional performance to take 3 points in a difficult and high velocity game. Whilst the low sun posed a challenge to the vision of Rhydding in the first half, they still were absolutely dominant for the first 15 minutes so it was a poor reflection of the game when Newcastle scored against the run of play, having had very little possession.
Defensively, every Rhydding player was on the money and showed technical excellence.
Some key tactical changes saw Ben Rhydding shift into a new gear in the second half and it did not take long to equalise. Charlie Smith bravely made certain of Matty Bairstow�s shot making it 1-1. It was Smith again with clinical composure who gave Rhydding the lead after connecting with a fantastic ball from Musgrave.
The students replied with an equaliser in a flash to take it back level. Rhydding piled the pressure on and Will McHugh (who had an outstanding game) won them a corner at a critical moment. Will Musgrave gobbled up the chance to score the winner with less than 5 minutes to go and Rhydding held on for dear life in the dying minutes to earn 3 huge points.
This was an impressive mental and physical show which will stand them in good stead to face Bowdon at home next week (3pm).