Men's 2nd XI Vs Hampton-in-Arden 2

Telford 2nds resumed their season following the previous week’s weather intervention by welcoming mid table Hampton in Arden to St George’s. Having not played since the win over Bridgnorth on 10th December, Telford knew they would have to quickly get back up to speed against a Hampton side that posed a real challenge in the reverse fixture in the first half of the season. Telford started relatively well, with the game being played at a fast pace and plenty of space all over the pitch, they were able to open the scoring midway through the first half when quick play down the Telford left led to Sammy Brazier setting up Sean Huffer to nutmeg the keeper from close range. Brazier was at it again soon after, setting up Tom Jones who flicked the ball into the far right corner leaving the keeper stranded. Soon after, Telford were down to 10 with Jones and a Hampton player both shown yellows for aggro. Hampton kept showing attacking threat with their efforts rewarded when a through ball to the top left of the D caught Telford unawares and with Nathan Capes rushing out from his goal, the Hampton forward was able to slide the ball under him. Telford responded well though with good work in the middle of the park leading to Jon Cook setting up Huffer for a trademark reverse finish into the far right of the goal. Telford were starting to get guilty of inviting more pressure on themselves though by not moving the ball quickly or decisively enough, leading to Hampton pulling a goal back from a short corner with the disguised slap flying straight through Capes’ legs on the stroke of half time.

The message at half time was for Telford to focus on the game and move the ball round much better than they had in the first half. Unfortunately Hampton were able to get the next goal, bringing the score back to 3-3. Tom Bullock and Luke Stacey were both shown green cards for dubious tackling at different stages of the half as the Hampton pressure grew. The visitors had the ball in the back of the net a 4th time from a short corner drag flick, only for the umpire to deem the ball had not gone outside the D. This seemed to wake Telford up who shortly after went up the other end and made it 4-3 themselves, sustained pressure in the D leading to Brazier setting up Huffer to finish on the spin to complete a hattrick of goals and assists for the pair. Telford sought to see the game out with all hands to the pump, with some questionable passing play gifting Hampton too many free hits for high balls, but ultimately getting to the final whistle to record their 11th win from 11 games.

Next week Telford travel to Sutton Coldfield looking to continue their winning run.

Goals: Sean Huffer x3, Tom Jones

Assists: Sammy Brazier x3, Jon Cook

Cards: Tom Jones - Yellow, Tom Bullock - Green, Luke Stacey – Green

MOM: Sean Huffer

DOD: Tom Bullock / Nathan Capes