Men's 1st Team Vs Wolverhampton

Yardley  0       Wolverhampton    2

After two away games Yardley finally played their first home league game in the Warwick Printing MRHA West Midlands Division 1, against the early league leaders, Wolverhampton.

Wolverhampton soon showed their attacking intentions with some positive forays into their opponents’ half. However, after last week’s poor defensive performance, Yardley were determined not to let that happen again. They were boosted by some good early saves by their keeper, Neal Makepeace and steadily clawed their way back into the game with some creative play of their own and had a good attempt on goal well saved. Eventually, Wolverhampton edged into the lead mid-way through the half. A short corner shot on goal was initially saved but rebounded to an attacker who made no mistake with his follow up. Although Wolves generally had the more controlled mid-field play they were not able to create many definite chances to add to their lead. Yardley tried hard to get back into the game and James Livingston had a short corner attempt on goal well saved. Yardley were pleased to reach half time will no further deficit.

The second half started with an even passage of play with both teams trying to get on top. The league leaders were finding it difficult to make much headway against a resolute defence. Yardley can thank their keeper for many more saves to keep his side in the game. As the game entered its final period the visitors did add a second to clinch the game, albeit courtesy of a somewhat fortuitous goal. A hit into the D from midfield found a deflection off an attacker’s stick to wrong-foot Yardley’s keeper. Despite a brief final effort, Yardley had to settle for a brave and positive effort to frustrate  the league leaders.

Because of the peculiarities of the league set-up this season, the teams will face each other again this week, back at Wolverhampton.