Dragons Slayed by Bloods

Going into the game needing 3 points to secure second place and possibly promotion to the Thurlow Nunn league reserve premier division. The second string now stand 3rd and still requiring three points.

With Elliot Ringe called up to occupy the number 13 shirt in the first team, Matt Grove deputised in goal for the second time this season. He was "protected" by a defensive three of Adam Frost, Ben Fowler and Jake Hearn. Tom Moore and Joe Steel were in unfamiliar positions as wing backs whilst, Ryan Gooch, Michael Schofield and star player Dan Morgan sat in the centre of midfield. Josh Undrill started his first game for Wivenhoe partnering Joe Heron. Tapiwanshe Madugu and Liam Dadds provided back up on the bench.

The opening thirty minutes were equal with plenty of possession and a lack of goal mouth action. Michael Schofield coming closest as his shot was blocked on the line after neat play in the box by Joe Heron. The league champions dealt the killer blow however as Ben Fowler missed a tackle and directly after Adam Frost missed a tackle leaving the Saffron Walden number ten one on one with Matt Grove. Grove was rounded and Walden took the lead.

One was soon after two as a cross from the right hand side was tucked home by the number ten again despite pressure from Adam Frost.

HT Saffron Walden 2-0 Wivenhoe

Despite going in 2-0 the blues came into the dressing room upbeat knowing that they had played good football and created good chances. With better reactions to second balls they were confident that they would concede no more and make a good game for the large crowd. However within ninety seconds from the restart a lack of communication between Joe Steel and Adam Frost allowed Walden through on goal to make the score 3-0.

Three was soon four as an unmarked player was found at the far post, his ball flew across the six yard box and Ben Fowler bizarrely fired home into his own net.

Wivenhoe's dismal day was complete when a ball was switched from right to left after a throw in. The unmarked Walden player given an ample amount of time to pick his spot and made it five.

Tapiwanshe Madugu replaced Josh Undrill and both team had chances to score. The Walden right back marauded down the right hand side, he found space inside but shanked his shot wide. Michael Schofield tripped in the area and used his hand to punch the ball in the goal, escaping a caution the referee disallowed the goal, awarding a free kick to the home side.

FT Saffron Walden 5-0 Wivenhoe
Some may blame not having a recognised goalkeeper, some may blame an unusual formation. But many will blame a lack of effort and commitment.