A big pitch and soft from the rains, the Finch lads were up for the game against top of the league. Jacob won the toss, so Finch played down hill, with the wind and with the sun at their backs.
Another fast start from the away team in blue, working the ball well. Farnham’s game was simple, play it long and chase it down with quick forwards.
Finch defended really well in numbers, neutralising the long ball threat time and time again. And Finch had chances to get ahead, couldn’t hit the target.
Farnham got the first goal from a goal mouth scramble off a corner which tantalisingly rolled past everyone just out of reach. Farnham’s second was from a long ball cleared out of the penalty box but thundered into the top of the net past a diving Ben A. Their third was a cross, but looped into the top corner of the net…..definitely not a shot just like on Match of the Day. 3-0 half time. To their credit Finch kept battling through to the whistle.
Our lads were not beaten in spite of being knackered already, with the uphill/wind/sun half to go. Fortunately the wind dropped and the sun had moved on, But still tough conditions to get back on the pitch, no matter how many Jelly Babies were eaten.
Finch kept the pressure up and were rewarded with a smashed home goal in another goal mouth scramble. The effect was amazing, with Finch pressing harder and pinning Farnham in. For the next 20 mins it was all Finch, winning the ball back quickly and looking likely to score with repeated opportunities. They had goal scoring chances but couldn’t beat Farnham’s keeper.
Farnham were eventually awarded a penalty in yet another goal mouth scramble, which put them 4-1 up. This hit the lads hard and they struggled to fight the fatigue for the last 10 minutes. Marcus’ foot finally gave in taking Finch down to 10. And finally the Farnham long ball tactic worked creating the 1-on-1 with Ben A to get the final goal with just a couple of minutes to go.
Our lads gave everything today and were completely spent. 80 mins of hard battling on a massive muddy pitch. I couldn’t ask for anything more from them and am so proud of how they did. Farnham’s manager was very complimentary of the fight they put up.
Final score 5-1 to Farnham
Well done to all of the Hurricanes for their commitment and efforts today!!
