Hampshire Cup - 2nd Round

 

Stockbridge 3 Brading 4

 

A superb team performance saw us come from behind against our High flying Hants Premier League opponents.

On a superb pitch the opening 10 minutes saw a glut of chances with them missing 2 good chances before Jacob Treagus received a short corner and his mazy run ended with a superb finish. Moments later our hosts levelled with a shot from distance. We then found ourselves behind when their no 9 ( very good player) put them ahead. The crazy opening. Period didn’t end there and Valer finished superbly to put us level. Chances came and went at both ends and we were indebted to Andy Morey who first pulled off a stunning double save and then beat away a fierce drive. We gave as good as we got and created chances of our own before going in 2-2 at half time.

The second half saw us start under pressure, but the work rate of the lads was magnificent as we harried, chased, blocked, pressed and pressurised the home side. We then got ahead when Jacob grabbed his second. With Jack Youngson replacing the injured Tim Shaw in the middle he helped provide a solid foundation to press forward. Aaron Bennett scored a superb goal from distance to increase our lead and it looked like job done.

The referee who had an excellent game seemed to have his watch stuck as it seemed like for 20 minutes, he kept saying 4 minutes to go. Stockbridge scored a very scrappy third to make the last few minutes nervy but we held on for a deserved win.

So proud of the squad today - the lads were brilliant and the support from those that came away much appreciated

Football is a team game, and the TEAM were outstanding today. Aaron Youngson’s work rate was phenomenal today and set the tone. Scott Lawson was a constant threat and caused them no end of problems. The back four were superb and Andy made some big saves at big times.

MOM today was a tough choice in some respects as the Team were superb but Sam Knowles turned in a magnificent display. He was up against a very good centre forward, but he showed today what I’ve felt ever since he’s played for me - one of the best defenders on the island. His reading of the game, calmness under pressure and organisation- first class. Coupled with the fact he’s a great lad - a managers dream - outstanding Knowlsey

Huge thanks to Cookie for driving today and to Geoff for organising all the travel.