Rearranged Fixture Sees BOE Flop

Even with the knowledge that we beat Old Bordenians at home last year, it was still hard to predict this match’s outcome – especially after such a mixed season.

The Game. In the first ten minutes both teams were fairly even with equal spells of possession, but ultimately giving the neutral spectator a rather dull exhibition. This suddenly changed however, after Old Bords’ evolved their game, by welcoming our high press and in turn diverting their balls into the width, where they began utilising their strong wing-play, which allowed them to put away two goals on the counter attack. Despite the best efforts of our solid Full Backs – Ram Basra and Irvine Turner. Ram displaying great composure throughout the game and Irvine turning the intensity up a gear with a brilliant all round display, which saw him walk away as our MOTM. BOE did however, manage to win many several short corners, but were unable to convert any of them.
For the Second Half BOE decided to alter their tactics and adopted a new ‘4-4-2’ formation in order to counter the Old Bords’ wide play, but it seemed the damage was already done, and the opposition managed to capitalise on our loss of spirit and slot in another goal from a short corner.

Despite this, BOE stuck to their guns and rallied, allowing us to win (yet another) short corner. Deciding to break our previously establish rhythm of straight strikes and flicks from the top of the D, Edd Thorogood decided to instead improvise and quickly slipped the ball to Henry Baines who was positioned on his left. Henry then managed to string a series of intricate 1-2’s together with Edd – both showing great composure in a crowded D. To eventually allow Edd Thorogood to calmly slot in our consolation goal from the P spot.

The last 10 mins was a dull, monotonous blur. Silver lining? Lots to think about for next season.

Final Score:

Old Bordenians 2nd XI 3-1 Blackheath and OE’s 2nd XI