Chawton Athletic returned to a very wet Earth with a very large bump after last week's heroic ten man victory against Morley Road, when they welcomed Royal Oak to a very wet and windy Binsted!
A shortage of players once again hampered Athletic's chances as they turned out ten players against far better opposition.
Players weren't the only shortage, as a call from the league revealed our referee had moved across to a different fixture and that, despite the referees secretary's best efforts, we were without an official. Instead Matt I put that 17 year old class 3 refereeing qualification finally into practice!
The game kicked off in absolutely horrendous weather, heavy rain being driven horizontally across the ground. Athletic's ten men always looked likely to struggle against a well organized Oak side who seemed to have rectified the issues that surrounded their performance four weeks ago, when Athletic pushed them all the way.
Oak took the lead early on and soon doubled their lead, but Athletic fought back and deservedly scored through a superb long range rocket from Sam. His shot swerved in the wind, causing all kinds of problems for the Oak keeper.
A third was added controversially as the ball apparently entered the goal via the side netting, but unfortunately the ref was unable to see that.
Oak then scored directly from a free kick. Athletic shot straight back as Sam added a second from the penalty spot, as he was brought down from behind when powering into the box. Oak complained but the view Matt I had suggested it was a stone wall pen.
Half time came, the scores at 2-4, and some there was respite for some of us from the weather!
Unfortunately the wind played havoc with the Chawton defence in the second half, and Oak strolled casually away with the game scoring direct from three corners and two long shots, one of which was parried out by Lee to an Oak player likely to have been sitting in an offside position, but as it was not flagged Matt I had to give the goal.
Athletic looked dangerous on the break as always, and Si H could have scored Athletic's third after great work from Sam, with Si's diving header just squeezing past the post.
Athletic strove onwards and George, Bob, Marc and Si H were excellent in midfield and kept running and running.
The whistle went to signal the end of the game, a disappointing result for Athletic who perhaps did not deserve such a beating.
There is always hope for next week that we might have enough players, hopefully Si E, Pat and Scott, Ryan and Robbie may be available.
Blog Man of the Match was Si H, an excellent performance again, who's quality is clear to see and is proving a very valuable asset indeed, special mention to the long absent George, who had his best game in Chawton colours.
Chawton return the Street, Binsted next week as they entertain Bluebell. 9:45am sharp meet at the ground, though will be texting to ask for availabilities Tuesday evening.
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