This was our first practice Match of the new season against Sutton Common Rovers who had already played 3 or 4. A good game took place. The Marsh Rangers F.C. XI Team put up an excellent performance for around 60 minutes, but with the introduction of a large number of replacement Sutton players during the second half, stamina told. [remember this was our first practice Match where a number of our Players had played together].
During the first half, Sutton started off as if they were going to run riot, but very soon Marsh took control. After around 14 minutes JACK BIGWOOD was put clear by Harry Thomas, dummied the Sutton keeper, and fired in a low shot that Sutton could not keep out. 0 - 1 to Marsh Rangers F.C. In defence, young stand in keeper Grant Reeve, along with solid back four Miles Wiggins, Harry Thomas [capt], Craig Drew and Jonny Wiggings were "OUTSTANDING" and lapped up with apparent ease anything Sutton could fire at them, although I am sure they worked hard to give this impression. The midfield looked skillful but not yet settled, with Rhys Price, Jack Bigwood, and Harrison Ashby trying to find their feet. Rhys perhaps looked more settled, and tried a few "magical" tricks but it is perhaps too early in the Pre-Season for them at the moment. Jack Bigwood put in a strong 90 minutes and looks a useful addition to the squad, even at this early stage. Up front Bradley Grant, Mat Monhon, Andrew Thomas, and a very useful looking Paul Nolan all caused Sutton problems. Paul Nolan only lasted a short time before coming off with an injury, which left Marsh with a basic 11 players. Sutton were never out of this Match but Marsh certainly were superior in the first half.
At the start of the second half Marsh still showed their superiority on the pitch, with the Sutton keeper having to make a number of fine saves, {he did play well, but perhaps our shots could have been a little better} .
As the second half progressed Sutton kept introducing more "good" players and against a tiring Marsh side, it told. Marsh were hanging on, but doing so well, with style. It took a "12" ( twelve !! ) player Sutton attack to score the equaliser. This was not noticed until later, when the Referee could only ask one of them to leave and resume the Match with a drop balll. After this the flood gates opened. Sutton scored 2 more goals at various times, when Marsh were down to 10 Players, with a Player being treated on the sidelines each time. Sutton Common Rovers F.C. had made the best of the turn around and took advantage of things going their way, including a disputed late Penalty, but good luck to them .
As stated , THIS WAS A USEFUL FIRST OUTING FOR MARSH RANGERS F.C., who will only get better the longer they can last. Thank You to Sutton Common Rovers for a useful Match.
DON'T FORGET TRAINING, LADS ....... WE WERE GOOD BUT NEED TO GET BETTER .