Crowborough’s Mixed side beat the Barbarians 7-3 in a high scoring game of excellent play.
Played in sweltering conditions both sides proved full of energy. The visitors, a brilliant mix of East Grinstead, Tunbridge Wells and Eastbourne stars, brought skill and determination to their game. The Crows with six games already behind them as a unit seemed cohesive and well-drilled.
With Keren Loder strong in goal, the home side played on the front foot with the first goal coming from a James Partridge pass in the pocket to Josie Mitchell. Next to score was Jen Brough following creative play from Rose James and Vicky Dennett.
The Barbarians then secured their lines with Adrian, Kira and Anne holding position to thwart the home side. Chances for the visitors were provided by Ben dictating from a central role, and by the always on the move Woody. The visitors were able to advance speedily and one such break saw Beau score following excellent team build up from Joss and David.
Next, Partridge scored his first goal of the match for the Crows with a well taken strike. He made it a brace after good wing play from Sam Alker. Midfielders Matt Burns and Lucy Smith provided opportunities and strove forward whilst centre backs Meg Bissett and Ash Fishenden worked hard to ensure the home side remained strong with Sam Williams playing a series of positions with great skill.
The game remained competitive throughout and the Barbarians struck next. A clever play out from defence to the middle saw David get another goal back for the Barbarians with a strong precise strike.
However, the Crows remained comfortable and soon restored the gap. Amanda Catling took up the anchor role and none could pass. The James siblings Ben, Tom and Rose brought their usual calm and skill, while Andy Dennett and Tilly Ryder-Richardson stifled the opposition’s wide left and right attacks where the pacey and tenacious Daisy and clever passing Lotta were a constant danger.
Playing an excellent game, speedy wide man Alker was next on the score sheet for the Crows.
In the final quarter, the visitors upped the pressure once again and were awarded a short corner. Midfielder Lotta scored with a powerful and well-placed strike. It was reward for an excellent game.
The last strike once again went to the Crows in what was a game played in good spirits by all. Young umpire Ethan Blake did an excellent job of officiating throughout, with Amanda, Ash and Vicky taking turns as the other umpire. Mixed games like these provide excellent opportunities to try umpiring. Volunteers always welcome!
Joint players of the match for the Crows were Matt Burns and Josie Mitchell. Umpire nominated POMs for the Barbarians were David and Lotta.
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