Men's 1st Team Vs Harborne 4

YARDLEY   1                       HARBORNE  4ths   1

Goal-scorer :  Noor Zaman

It remained honours even at the end of this lively encounter. On another grey and drizzly late autumn afternoon it seemed that maybe no-one was really excited at the prospect of this game. However, as it turned out it proved to be an entertaining game, played in a good spirit and with a draw, in the end, probably a fair outcome.

After an energetic start by both sides, things settled down and Harborne, with their more careful build up through midfield, looked more likely to score first. However, in spite of their approach, they never really gave Yardley keeper, Neal, much to do in terms of serious work. Yardley were more speedy and direct in their own approach play and producing some neat hockey at times, leading to good chances of their own. Skipper Alex, now thankfully back from injury was instrumental in the home team’s attack and defence. He was ably assisted by Jeevan and Zack. Yardley defence remained pretty solid and did not give much away. Everyone in the team was going their bit. Just before the break Neal was called upon to make some timely saves from the visitors’ short corners while Jeevan and Noor had good chances saved which led to a fairly even situation at half-time.

The start of the second half proved to be a case of more of the same, with both teams eagerly looking for openings. Harborne continued with their patient build up, but Neal was busier with clearances rather than direct saves. Harborne then produced a period of sustained pressure leading to a series of short corners, with the fourth one of which produced a chance that was not cleared and helped over the line to establish a slender lead. Harborne went looking for another, but Yardley were trying hard to get back into the game. Eventually after good work by Jeevan and others, the ball came to Noor with a fairly easy task to adding to his tally for the season.

Both teams went for the winner, but both defences holding firm, there was no further addition to the score. An enjoyable game to watch with perhaps the fairest result in the end. Yardley will be pleased at the way their young team is settling into the season and looking forward to their next game away at Solihull Blossomfield.