Ron Barker, Manager, reported that in the match against Holland England opened quite well. The defense was holding and we had most of the attacking play which was rewarded after 3 minutes with a goal by James Taylor from a long shot through several players and under the ‘keeper. A couple of minutes later Brendan Barker on a run from the back carried it round the goal but it took several attempts before he could put it safely home for a 2-0 lead.
It continued as a strong well contained half for England but the Dutch pulled one back after a mix-up on the anti game line.
Determined to start the 2nd half well England set a strong pace which worked and several changes of players were made. After 10 minutes the Dutch equalised from a well taken shot and they attempted to apply pressure but did not have the energy to sustain it.

James scored in the 14th minute with a flick shot through their defense followed by Jess I’Anson with a classically executed finish on a through pass from James. The final goal slotted home was from Joe Wheatley.
Final Score 5 -2 to England.
Even more important than not finishing bottom of the Table was the fact that the Team were looking in good shape for their next challenge in Macau in a months time. There is obviously work to be done on the mistakes that were made during the week.
Simon Hosking did not play in this last match. He was ‘rested’ because he was nursing an injury and as he did not play, this should now not cause him or the team a problem in their preparation for the World Bs.

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Reporter: Aileen Barker