This tournament was the first chance of any competitive football for the club this season.

 

The third and second teams both put up a side and enjoyed a decent workout on a fantastic day weather-wise.

The 3rds comprising of Andy Harper in goal, Shane Bills, Chris Scott, Matty Scott, Lee Turner (c), Ben Thomas and Darren Barton were caught napping a little in the first of 3 mini-league games in their group. They were up against the eventual group winners, Heath Pilgrims ‘B’ and were put to the sword by 2 well struck goals and needed to learn some quick lessons about the pace of the game for the next test against Newick ‘Rugby’.

This match was contested far more hotly and it was apparent that the lads had made good progress. The result however was still to be a defeat by a 2-0 margin but Newick were fortunate to get the opportunities from some lucky bounces of the ball while Buxted had some good efforts cleared by stray feet and other body parts.

Going into the last game the only thing to play for was pride as progression in the tournament was now unobtainable. This proved to be a decent test for the lads once more as Newick ‘D’ took the lead in the first half with a low struck effort. Buxted fought back well though and played some good football in both halves as well as putting their bodies in front of everything. Matty Scott took a nasty smack on the nose from the ball just before half-time and was wrestled of the pitch soon after the re-start by an over-zealous defender. This was almost immediately after he had powered Buxted back onto level terms with a sweet goal from the half way line. He was replaced by Shane Bills who despite another determined game coming from the bench couldn’t help to find the killer touch to bring home the 3 points. 1-1 was the result.

One point from the days toil seemed a little disappointing but the lads were to hopefully learn some valuable lessons about re-acting quickly to changes in the momentum of play and this was apparent by the 3^rd match.

Man of the tournament was almost certainly Matty Scott who is looking like a more accomplished player with every viewing. Special mention should also be made of Shane Bills’ uncomplaining role as sub on the day. His contributions in replacing Matty, and Chris Scott in the previous two games, were no less valuable than the other lads and his obvious efforts in trying to turn the games, given comparatively short periods of time to pick up the pace, didn’t go unnoticed.

 

Lance Ingram - 3rd team Manager