17th Oct 2020 Mens 2nd v Sheffield University Bankers 3s(Home) 2 - 1 win
Looking to build upon a hard fought but slightly disappointing draw away at Boston Spa last week, Ben Rhydding 2s took on Sheffield University Bankers 3s in an excellent game on Saturday.
Rhydding were under the cosh to start off with from a strong Bankers press. However, with Mark Horsman stepping through well, Rhydding were able to play their way into the game. It was disappointing, therefore, when Bankers took the lead from a short corner, with a drag flick sliding underneath the dive of the unfortunate Josh Hughes.
Undeterred, Rhydding continued to build pressure on the Banker's goal and it didn't take long for them to draw level. The influential Tom Burton played an exquisite pass into promising debutant Tom Eaglesfield. He played in Carrick Matthews who skilfully rounded the keeper and fired in a reverse stick shot from a difficult angle.
The game ebbed and flowed, with both teams working hard to find an opening. Rhydding thought they had taken the lead only for Josh Till's finish to inexplicably be chalked off for a foot (only joking - it was a MASSIVE foot from Tilly). The half ended with the score level.
Rhydding started the second half with more confidence and this helped them to dominate possession. They were more patient in their approach play and this helped them carve out a few more opportunities, with Tommy Hagan and Barney Walsh's dribbling causing the Bankers defence problems. They began to get better outcomes when in the circle and this lead to a series of short corners. After a few were wasted, one was finally converted, with Burton deftly deflecting in.
Rhydding continued to push for a third but also kept calm at the back as Bankers searched out an equaliser. Strong work rate and tackling from Danny Foster, Fraser Arnott, Matt Powell and Horsman kept bankers at bay. Captain Tom Ibison also made a few strong tackles, one of which was fortunate to escape punishment from the umpires. But Rhydding stood firm and earned their first win of the season in what would have been a great game to watch had anyone been allowed!
MotM: Mark Horsman for a very strong offensive and defensive performance.
DotD: Josh Till for his football skills.