Injury-hit Elsenham put on brave show

Elsenham 1 Sawbridgeworth 2 Under-14s Division Three ELSENHAM had their first fixture of the year rearranged at Elsenham Rec due to a water logged pitch at Sawbridgeworth. The last time these two teams met back in September it was a cracking game, played

Elsenham 1 Sawbridgeworth 2

Under-14s Division Three

ELSENHAM had their first fixture of the year rearranged at Elsenham Rec due to a water logged pitch at Sawbridgeworth.

The last time these two teams met back in September it was a cracking game, played in good spirit and so it proved again.

Both teams started slowly but this was hardly surprising as it was the first game in many weeks for both teams.

As the game picked up Elsenham took control.

Defensively, the home side looked strong with Charles and Harry in the centre and some masterful tackling from Patrick while in midfield Nathan and Ryan were battling away.

After 20 minutes, Elsenham were awarded a free kick 30 yards from the Sawbridgeworth goal which Kyle swung in for Harry to control before coolly lobbing the goalkeeper from close range.

Ten minutes later there was a shout for a penalty as Charles' shot seemed to hit a Sawbridgeworth player's hand in the penalty box but the decision went against the attackers.

On the stroke of half time Kyle went on one of his trademark runs from midfield and dribbled past the defence before striking a shot which fizzed just inches over the bar.

Elsenham lost 'keeper George but an already injured Charlie volunteered bravely to help the team out and hobbled onto the pitch.

The game picked up pace and after some good pressure from Sawbridgeworth the visitors scored an equaliser.

Despite some heroic goalkeeping, Charlie's injury proved too much and he was supported back off the pitch.

Luke was the next volunteer who stepped into goal and Elsenham had their third goalkeeper of the day.

A few minutes later Sawbridgeworth had a great chance to go ahead when one of their players lobbed a ball over Luke's head but somehow the youngster stretched out and seemingly dragged the ball back from the brink of a goal to keep Elsenham in the match.

The game was heading for a draw when Sawbridgeworth were awarded a free kick just outside the box for what seemed like hand ball.

They duly scored.

Elsenham continued to apply pressure and overall this was a spirited performance from the team, particularly from those players who volunteered to help the team out in time of need.