3rd Team Vs Leek 6s

Old Wulf’s 3rds welcomed Rob Bolus on his debut game against Leek 6ths to WGS for a 12:00 start.  Leek currently sitting second in the league and were unbeaten so far this season, having won 4 and drawn one of their previous games. OW’s finding themselves just above mid table having won 3 and lost 2. Taking this into account Old Wulf’s lined up in a different formation to normal, and promptly got the game underway.

For the first 5 minutes most of the open exchanges taking place within OW’s half.  Leek where determined and moving the ball well, maintaining a high press. It wasn’t long before they were awarded a short corner and although the ball ended up in the net the goal was disallowed as it crossed the line at around shoulder height.  This was a let off and the wake-up call OW’s needed and on 16 minutes OW's took the lead when the ball found Ed close to the goal line who calmly dispatched the ball over the line. 1-0 OW’s. It was the penultimate action Ed would play in the game as following the restart Ed took a strongly hit ball to his right hand, and unable to continue retired from the game. After a few minutes delay and with Manni on in place of Ed, the game recommenced.  The formation was working well with each player maintaining a disciplined performance in their position.  Communication was good with Rob Bolus showing excellent on-field leadership (A future captain in the making?).  The central midfield trio, ably supported by the wide players, were controlling the game.  On 29 minutes OW were awarded a penalty corner injected and scored by Nic near the post. 2-0 OW’s.  And so it remained for the remainder of the half.

HT 2-0

Following a positive half time talk, Leek got the second half underway and were determined to reduce the deficit.  However, it was Old Wulf’s who took the initiative and on 44minutes increased their lead when Vish received the ball out wide on the right and twisted this way and that, holding off the attention of the Leek defence all while continuing to advance into the D, before firing a well hit shot past the keeper and into the goal.  An excellent solo goal and a contender for goal of the season. 3-0 OW’s. OW’s were in control and comfortable, perhaps a little too comfortable and within 2 minutes of the restart following Vish's wonder goal, Leek pulled one back. 3-1 OW’s. The goal rallied Leek and they increased the pressure and press on OW’s but on each occasion were unable to capitalise, despite wining several short corners, OW’s somehow standing firm.  That’s not to say OW’s didn’t have opportunities to increase their lead as several chances went begging in the second half. On numerous occasions the forward line successfully hit the target, unfortunately the target was Leek’s goalkeeper and not the net.  With around 3 minutes to go Leek again broke through OW’s defensive line via an overload,, following a breakdown in play and got their second beating Rowley at close range. 3-2 OW’s. Following the goal there was another break in play, when an OW’s player took a nasty ball to the knee, just outside OW's 23m line. Following the recommencement OW’s successfully saw the game out without further incident.

FT 3-2 Win.

Players MOM goes to Vish, others nominated with 1 vote each were: Nic 1, Rob 1 and Noah 1.

Summary: A game where Old Wulf’s despite taking a little time to adjust to the unfamiliar formation were for the most part in control. Only really failing to be in control during the second half, when at times they lost their shape and discipline. OW’s moved the ball better than they did in the previous game and if they continue to do so will undoubtedly reap future rewards. A really good energetic game and a good win, well done to all.