Match Reports
24/01/09
Ashford 0-5 Men's 2nd XI
This weekend, Brighton 2s looked to maintain their spot at the top of the table and their unbeaten record with a win over Ashford at home. A very strong Brighton side took on a much improved Ashford team in conditions perfect for hockey. The first ten minutes of the game were evenly contested with both sides failing to score from short corners. As the game progressed, Brighton began to apply the pressure with fast ball around the back exposing holes in the Ashford defense. A deflected shot from Ross Hardwick opened the scoring after 15 minutes and by then Brighton were beginning to assert their dominance on the game with quick passing and movement. Long periods of Brighton possession lead to their second goal which was scored by Kenny Rogers. Some excellent midfield play found Rogers in open space on the left of the D and he calmly slotted it into the right hand side netting over a diving keeper.
Leading 2-0 at half time and with Ashford's only option being the long ball, Brighton appeared to ease off the gas for a short spell and this lead to Ashford's best chance of the match, which was heroically saved off the line by player-coach Luke Williams. A second goal from Rogers calmed the Brighton nerves and the game was soon beyond Ashford when Jamie Franklin finished off a well worked team move. With Ashford's heads down, Brighton created a multitude of chances before Rogers finally completed his hat-trick with a screaming shot from the top of the D, making the final score 5-0. Despite the excellent result and performance against a good Ashford side, Brighton will have been disappointed not to have taken more of their chances; having not converted any of their short corners and with many missed opportunities in open play.
written by:
VT