Old Bordenian 1^st X1 – 2

Burnt Ash - 1

Newly promoted Old Bordenians were made to fight hard for victory in their opening league game away to Burnt Ash.

With some last minute alterations to the team line up, OBs did well to gel together quickly and were passing and moving well from the first minute. After several short corners, OBs made the breakthrough when Alex Cambell deflected over the goal 'keeper from a precision pass by captain Justin Hudson.  Despite losing Joe Love shortly after to an ankle injury, OBs continued to create chances and were unlucky not to go in at half time with a bigger lead.

As expected, Burnt Ash came out strong in the second half and after 10 minutes levelled the score with a good individual goal. This however only served tospur OBs on and they began to create space and were counter attacking well.  After 20 minutes Iain Burwood managed to scramble the ball over the line to give OBs their one goal advantage back and, despite losing James Henley for 10 minutes following a rash challenge, they were still creating goal-scoring opportunities.  As the game went on Burnt Ash pushed harder but a resilient Bordenian defence kept them at bay to take the 3 points.

OBs had to fight hard on a day when character and determination were as important as the hockey being played. Next week OBs entertain Worthing at home, 1.30 start..