1st Feb 2020 Mens 5th v Acomb 2(Away) 3 - 6 loss
Ben Rhydding fifths travelled to Acomb for a another tough fixture. Ben Rhydding had beaten Acomb at home, could they repeat the unexpected result?
Ben Rhydding had a just 11 players, so substitutions cannot be the blame as they quickly lost their shape and composure as Acomb scored three goals in the first half. The Blackburn / Jackson axis at the centre of defence looked very shaky, basic errors gifting Acomb a couple of goals.
Mac Brumfitt, given the responsibility to provide the flair in midfield, was influential on the good things Ben Rhydding did, and Liam Clark surprised the opposition with his pace and with more game time will improve his other skills.
0-3 down at half time Ben Rhydding felt they were not out of this game, but was going to be important to score the next goal. Oliver Harlen obliged, our team mathematician getting his calculations right and firing in from the acutest of angles. The positive vibes were short lived as Acomb responded with further goals. Oliver Harlen scored his second and Phil Blackburn scored from a penalty corner, reacting with lightening speed as Dan Tilbook's initial strike rebounded of the keepers pads.
Debate on the Man of the Match continued long into the afternoon, Oliver for scoring two goals or Dan for persuading the Sports Centre staff to open a changing room for us. Sorry Dan, we went for the two goals!
Ben Rhydding will need a better performance against Adel next week if they are to avenge their defeat from earlier in the season.