Crostyx 8 Phoenix 1

This was a comfortable win for a side well balanced between older heads and younger legs with 6 juniors and 5 over 35s against a Phoenix side with more extreme age differentials. Within 15 minutes Crostyx had opened up a 3-0 lead with the first strike from Luca following up a short corner and then a short corner strike from Nick Gillet and another short corner from Dave Fulton effectivelt sealed the win.  Further goals from Danny Robinson with a crisp shot from just inside the circle which the opposition defence instructed their goalkeeper to leave which he obligingly did and Crostyx were provided a 5-0 interval cushion. It could have been more, with the Hollymans creating many opportunities down the middle and right wing, Danny supporting well from right half, and Kevin Foot and NG and DF controlling the midfield.

Another goal within a minute of the re-start following a mix up in their defence suggested a hammering but Phoenix re-grouped and provided sterner opposition throughout the second period, with ex Crostyx stalwarts Frazer Croft up front and Tony Puddock at sweeper beginning to get some cohesion, but Frazer missed a few opportunities from their long ball strategy and Crostyx continued to threaten.

The goal of the day came from the Hollymans with Will  driving down the right and pulling back for Sam to convert. If we were confused, the opposition could not contain these two identical twins and they frequently lost their markers. The other goal was a clinical flick just inside the post from Kevin Foot clearing up a loose ball in the D.

Phoenix finally got on the score sheet to the delight of their goalkeeper and the final result was an 8-1 win to keep the 3rds in third place. The match was played in the best traditions of relaxed sporting endeavour with the opposition resigned but determined to play their part in a lost cause. Frazer huffed and puffed, and Tony Puddock kept their competitive edge to the fore in a display that showed he still had the skills but was outgunned by a fit and at time fast Crostyx outfit.