Scorers: S Burton, Alcock 3 (2 pens)

MOM: Alcock

Despite atrocious conditions and the game close to being abandoned the lads put in a spirited performance to take us through to the second round of the cup.  Winchester had a stronger side out this year and the conditions suited their game as they made the most of their chances and could have easily caused an upset.  The middle of the pitch was virtually unplayable meaning we couldn’t play our short passing game and at one point there was concern that we were going to be a man down with Al Mercer nearly drowning in one of the larger puddles.  In the end we battled through and having 2 subs made all the difference so a big well done to all of you and a special thanks to Nick and Peter for braving the elements to cheer us on.

The draw is on the 3rd December and next round likely to be mid January so will be in touch well before then to check availability. 

[Other results: Ardinians 1 - 3 Salopians, Harrovians 3 - 4 Brentwood, Malvern 2- 2 Westminster]

Also want to thank those that didn’t make the squad this time for being so understanding - yesterday proved that we need minimum 13 players each game so important that everyone makes themselves available and I'll do my best to ensure that everyone continues to be involved.  I'm also looking at sorting out some additional friendlies so will keep you posted (next games: 2nd round mid Jan, friendly v Harrovians 24th Feb).

Well done to all involved yesterday, player summaries below…..

Munny - awful day to be a keeper in such difficult conditions, got cold, wet, made some good stops & one slight mishap - did the job

Simpo - first game back this season and looked assured & quick as ever
Toddy - another good game from the Todd and developing a great partnership with Dougal
Dougal - as above, coped well with the conditions and put in one monster tackle
Frostie - another quality goal for 2nd in 2 games but unfortunately had to go off injured after 25 mins after a heavy challenge (glad to hear you got the all clear from A&E)

Scum - played intelligently and worked hard with Simpo up and down the right in defence and attack
Al - not really ideal conditions for our own little Xavi, worked tirelessly - probably needs to work on his swimming
Jules - battled hard all day and won the midfield battle with the oppo
Ev - bombed it up and down the left all game, hit the bar with a fierce strike and played the conditions well, close shout for MOM

Cat - ran non stop for the first 45 but had to go off at half time (hope you're feeling better today)
Pete (debut) - neat play up front, a well deserved hatric after winning both pens and stepped up to take them when there weren't too many volunteers (on that basis I guess he probably gets MOM)

Subs
Oli - came on earlier than expected and enjoyed playing up front despite the murmurs of disapproval!
Beach - came on for second half and looked rock solid

Scorers: S Burton, Alcock 3 (2 pens)
Comment of the day (1): Gordon (Wykehamists) to Ev "Oi Ben, we don’t swear in Vets games you f*cking w*nker"
Comment of the day (2): Munny in pub afterwards "lots of keepers seem to worry about being beaten at their near post but I don't mind at all"

Moment of the day (1): Al Mercer disappearing in a puddle
Moment of the day (2): Al turning up last so getting the 1970's strip and having to wash the kit
Pass of the day: Al Merce to Frostie for first goal

Next Fixtures:
Sunday 24th February - Old Harrovians (Bank of England)