Dragon's Fail To Convert Chances

Wivenhoe went into this game at Stoneylands in buoyant mood after a victory at premier division side Brightlingsea Regent 4 days ago. Having researched the opposition, they knew it would be a tough afternoon as the hosts are currently flying in their Chell Trophy group (top with 12 points) and having a good start to the league campaign. This combined with the fact their first team did not have a fixture ensured it would not be an easy afternoon for the 12 man Dragon's squad.

Ben Fowler was rested and began the game on the bench as the team was captained by Dan Morgan; a reward for his consistent performances for the Blues. Elliot Ringe retained his place in goal and was protected by Adam Frost at right back as Matt Griffin was given a deserved call up to represent the first team in FA Vase action. Garry Burdett partnered Sam Sadler in the centre, as Jake Hearn returned to left back. Lewis Blanchett and Joe Heron partnered Dan Morgan in central midfield. Ollie O'Hare and Joe Steel played out wide and Jack Harrington once again lead the line.

There was not a lot in the first half, with most of the play in the midfield. Both goalkeepers dealing comfortably with anything that came towards them. Long Melford had the first chance to take the lead as a header from a corner was cleared off the line by Adam Frost. After a dubious free kick decision Wivenhoe cleared the danger off for a throw in. From the resulting throw in Melford took the lead as the ball bobbled in and around the area it was finished from close range.

Wivenhoe were not prepared to let the goal dent their confidence and continued to play the football they know they can do. Jack Harrington levelled the scores before half time as he go on the end of a Lewis Blanchett through ball. He elegantly lobbed the oncoming goalkeeper and finished despite the covering defender using a hand to attempt the ball going in.

HT Long Melford 1-1 Wivenhoe

The pace and tempo of the game did not change as the percentage of play in midfield was high. Wivenhoe's failure to deal with a throw in was once again gave Melford the lead. A long kick from the Melford goalkeeper was one on the left hand side, as Frost was arguably fouled whilst making a header. Sadler came across to thwart the danger for the expense of a corner. The throw in came in and continuous interplay resulted in a finely struck strike from outside of the area.

Wivenhoe had to respond and did so from a free kick out wide on the right hand side as Jack Harrington was once again fouled. Lewis Blanchett played a low ball to the near post which was cleared. Blanchett played the ball in again as Garry Burdett was on hand to equalise for the second time around.

Melford sealed the points with 20 minutes left on the clock. A magnificent cross from the left hand side was met by an equally magnificent header in the 6 yard box to bag a third goal. The goal coming after Wivenhoe were forced into a change in the defence with Sam Sadler being replaced by Ben Fowler.

FT Long Melford 3-2 Wivenhoe

Stoneylands has become a bit of bogey ground for the Dragon's reserves. Losing by the same score line last year. They will hope to bounce back next week at home to Stowmarket Town.