What started as a realistic opportunity for points turned into a damage limitation exercise as the unavailability of players emerged during the preceding week.  despite all efforts (Big thank-you to Butch) Buxted started the game with nine and a bit players, with Gavin Horne and Richard South due at half-time.  The team lined up 3 - 4 - 1.5 and faced the siege which duly arrived.  However by sheer hard work, concentration and discipline Handcross were only allowed through once, and then with a finely taken goal which neither noodles (Who had pulled off some great saves) or the defense could do much about.

The cavalry duly arrived on time and hopes were high.  But, somehow, although looking much more dangerous upfront (Noodles gave way to Russ Kurd in goal), concentration had gone, perhaps due to fatigue, and Handcross scored again with an angled shot which deceived Russell (Who had also made some notable stops)

Noodles with a typically flamboyant run just failed to finish and Mike Tampkin also came close, but it was not to be.  however, there were many positives to take from the encounter.  Simon Barton showed he is a fine young player in the making, Andy King (Who suffered a facial injury in the second half) is a powerful and skillful player - it was a pity that there was no-one to feed off his aerial ability in the first half.  Richard South also made a very promising first start.  With a little more fitness these two players could add a new dimension to the seconds forward play.

Once again every squad member gave their all and once again we ended up wondering what might have been.  a full squad of fit players might have produced a very different result.  man of the Match went to Mike Tampkin for box to box endeavor.