Our first game of the season kicked off and we could not have had a worse start. A few late changes had to be made and the players were asked to keep the first 15/20 minutes tight. Sadly, this did not happen and within 20 minutes we were already chasing the game. Stewkley were looking to play the ball over the top or into the channels and put our back 4 under pressure. This worked as within 20 minutes we were 2-0 down. To make it either more disappointing, we were the team trying to play the better football with Nigel linking up well with the front two of Bruce & Justin but we could not seem to find a way through to goal. The best chance of the 1st half fell to Bruce with some good play out on the right and a great through ball to Bruce, all we had to do was hit the target. We did but the keeper made a good save from a strong shot from Bruce. The 1st half got worse when we failed to clear the ball and Stewkley picked up the ball and worked the ball out wide to the right and when the ball the was played through the middle we failed to get back in time and a last gasp tackle from Ben ended up with the ball being deflected passed Jon for 3-0! The half could have been worse but Jon made some great 1 on 1 saves.
The second half started better for the Trees as we were finally dealing with the long ball over the top and into the channels. However, we now not creating any clear cut chances. After 10 minutes it was time for a change and it was major. After discussions with Cloggs (thanks Cloggs) it was decided to play 4-3-3. Off came Pattison & Shandy and on went Wigsey and Jerome. Within 2 minutes we had scored! Jerome started to chase everything down (which is what he was told to do) and after winning the ball and a good ball from Bruce, Jerome scored with a looping header. Sadly, after that we did not have any clear chances as we seemed to want to walk the ball into the net.
A disappointing start to the season but we can move forward with confidence knowing that we played better defensively in the second half and that we can create good chances. However, we need to focus on winning games before we start playing our traditional type of football.

Half Time 3-0
Full Time 3-1

Trees Scorer – Jerome Thompson
MOM – Bruce Broadbent