Merton 1s v Old Westminster Citz – 14th January 2012

The Firsts continued their recent improvement in form with a win in the local derby at Mitcham. Both sides were promoted last season and have both struggled in the higher division. It was a scrappy first half and whilst there were not many scoring opportunities OWC’s came the closest when they hit the bar with a very good strike. We had our half chances but did not trouble the keeper. OWCs were getting on top as the half progressed and I felt we were a little fortunate to go in level at half time. However the second half was a different matter and we played much better right from the start. OWCs failed to deal with a low drilled corner and Tills was on hand to prod it home. We were soon two ahead when Jase’s determination (oh and his speed) beat the centre back and keeper to a loose through ball and scored. We were dominating the game and had several good chances to put the result beyond doubt. Clappers headed a corner narrowly over the bar. The third goal came from the spot when their defender brought down Tom Rowe, just managing to get him before he ran out of the area. Woody slotted the spot kick home beautifully to get us a valuable 3pts. Richard Melvin reffed the game very well and firmly and it never threatened to be like some of the games of yesteryear between the clubs. OWCs since winning Div 3 last year have had an awful season and their skip said nothing had gone for them. And you could see what he meant as they really did not seem to enjoy any good fortune in this game either and understandably got a little frustrated. They are now adrift at the bottom. Our Back four, marshalled very well by Clappers, operated well and the team defended well all over the pitch. Ash came to watch the game and is recovering well from his injuries. (See Pictures link) The consultant says that everything is in the right place and knitting together nicely. He certainly looked well and is coming on our end of season tour to Portugal. AS he cant play he has volunteered to stay up drinking with the boys and make sure the curfew is enforced properly ahead of the matches. It is good to have someone I can rely on to do this as I have never been quite sure that it has been adhered to. Away next week at Old Easthameians another of our fellow strugglers and another vital game. But this was agreat result and avery good day.

Written by:Max Herbert