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3/10/09
Old Oakmedians 1 Ham Rec 3
This game was never going to be a classic what with the strong wind and a poor pitch but with a good squad and the incentive of having never previously taken a point off Oakmedians the lads were up for this one.
The game started off very scrappily with both sides struggling with the bobbley pitch but both teams were creating chances without any end product. We eventually got the break through; a great run down the left from Wayne Hole was rewarded with “Birthday Boy” Dan Manuel getting a well taken goal; 1-0. Unfortunately Oaks hit back almost straight away, a long ball from their defence was not dealt with by our defence and the their striker put away his chance; 1-1. It was looking like we would be going into half time at 1-1 but then we produced the move of the match. Andy Barham and Kyle Barrington linked up superbly, this resulted in Simon Cutler putting a great ball into the box which was met by an outstanding header from Luke Dawe (the summersault that followed was not so impressive though Dawsey!!!). We almost made it 3 just before half time but Dan Manual managed to sky the ball well over the bar from 10 yards (this was the 1st nail in the coffin for Dan who went on to get the Banana Man outfit).
With a strong wind behind them Oakmedians threw everything into attack in the second half. However, our defence stepped up their game massively with Rob, Kyle, Dan and the injured Dixie heading or clearing everything they could throw at us. Andy, Gavin, Phil and Wayne took control in midfield and Dawsey and Dan lead the line superbly. We started to get on top again as the half progressed and went close with a few half chances. Our breakthrough finally came when Wayne Hole popped up on the right hand side of midfield to curl a superb left foot shot into the top corner.
This proved to be the end of Oakmedians challenge and we ran the show from then on. Oakmedians decided they had nothing to lose and sent their keeper up for a corner, we managed to clear the corner and the ball fell to “Banana Man” himself Dan Manual. With no goalkeeper and one defender to beat Dan got a bit carried away and tried a Beckham style shot from inside his own half,. Unfortunately Dan didn't get it quite right and managed to scuff the ball about 5 yards straight to their defender; for this Dan was awarded the coveted Banana Man outfit. A special mention should also go to Gary 'Beaver' Vincent who ran the line for us and must now be a contender for the Club Man of The Year Award. Beaver helps Keith and I out a lot on a Saturday and it is very much appreciated. another great win from the lads keeping us at 2nd in the league.
Team: Maitland, Barrington, Hatchard, Dixie, D Notley, Cutler, Barham, Sweetland, Hole, Dawe, Manuel Subs: Barr, Huckle, Haynes (for Cutler), Lamb (for Hole), Rees
