Twin Oaks FC U15's V Hurstpierpoint Colts

Ifield Community College

In the second of the pre-season friendlies, Twin Oaks faced last seasons U14 Division A runners-up and Presidents Cup winners Hurstpierpoint Colts. This fixture would certainly prove to be a tougher test than the previous friendly match against East Grinstead .

In a fair but physical first half it was Twin Oaks that had the lion's share of efforts on goal, coming very close to scoring after 15 minutes of play. A steered shot by Bradley beat the keeper but only to find the foot of the post which saved Hurstpierpoint from going a goal behind. It was however the away side that went in at half-time with a single goal advantage after squeezing in an effort at the near post after a fierce cross into the six-yard box from the right after 24 minutes.

An injury to Grant on 25 minutes forced the manager to make a tactical change and after a short period of adjustment Twin Oaks nearly scored an equaliser towards the end of the half. In a fairly even first 40 minutes it was Hurstpierpoint that ended the half 1-0 ahead.

The second-half started with the home side nearly going two goals behind within only a minute of the re-start, however a fine goal-line clearance from Harry denied the away side from scoring a second goal.

After that early second-half scare, the remainder of the game belonged to the home team. With a gutsy and strong tackling performance by Twin Oaks, especially by Scott in the heart of the midfield, Hurstpierpoint were forced backwards to play most of the second 40 minutes in their own half. Twin Oaks were able to take control of the game, retaining the ball well and creating some fine passing moves.

On 48 minutes a flicked header by Alex found the net by flying in off of the post. The equaliser was no more than the Twin Oaks team deserved and proved to be the turning point in the game. With further efforts on goal, one a fine long range shot by Harry, it was the home side, in the now pouring rain pressing, for the win, with Hurstpierpoint rarely making an attacking move. When they did break forward they found themselves up against a determined Twin Oaks defence, typified by the fine performance of Howard.

Another fine header goal by Alex from a cross into the area by Harry with 10 minutes left of the game saw Twin Oaks move into a 2-1 lead. A further goal by Tyler , a tap-in from within the six-yard box, saw the final score finish 3-1.

A fantastic overall team performance by Twin Oaks in a physical and competitive match left team officials and supporters alike elated after this fine win against strong opposition.

Goalscorers -
Alex 2 (48 & 70 mins)
Tyler (72 mins)

Man of the Match - Scott