Off and running (but not very fast of course)

At the second time of asking Sparkshop got the new season up and running with a comfortable 3 - 1 victory over rivals relegated with us in the reorganisation of the two divisions into 3. Thanks to a well taken hat-trick from new Matt, the win was an assured one as we lined up with Rich in goal, who pulled off a wonder save low to his left hand in the first half, the big fella(s) Dougie and Dom at the back (although Dom is starting to maraud this season), 4 pint Pete, Matt C and Kev in the middle, and myself and new Matt up front.

The first goal came from a quickly taken free kick on our right and saw Matt C cross to new Matt who volleyed a sweet shot first time into the goal despite the close attention of the defender. We looked comfortable in the main and Pete was having a fine passing game, setting up several chances. Our lead was doubled in the second half when new Matt picked an astute pass up and shouldered a defender to one side before steering the ball home with aplomb, high and handsome into the back of the goal. A momentary concern came with a long cross seemingly destined for safe hands Rich, deceiving him and flying over his outstretched arms and in for an unexpected goal.

The now fragile lead was well protected though with a dominant performance at the back from the 2 Ds and a good ball from Kev set new Matt free but pushing him out slightly wider than hoped. Despite this he beat the same defender twice and crashed a cool finish home to leave Sparkshop victorious at 3 - 1.

Good game all round.