South Saxons Men's 1st XI 5 --v--3 Middleton 1st XI

Saxons' poor form in the first 10 minutes in recent games was tested early as both teams started sharply.

But it was the home side that took the lead through a short corner by Alex Coombs.

Shortly after, Olli Beale was on target yet again to continue his fine form in front of goal, the build up play came from Tudor Stainsby's wibbly run from the half way line passing at least 4 players.

Middleton replied when an aerial was thrown towards the Saxons defence and a miscommunication between Toby Reed and Paddy Cornish led to the ball falling to the awaiting forward who smashed the ball past a helpless Mike Sutton.

Reed made up for his defensive error by finishing a classic short corner routine which has worked so many times previously.

A few tactical changes were made at half time to tighten up the midfield and bring Jon Meredith into the game.

Soon after the break the visitors were putting on the pressure once more only for man of the match Paddy Cornish to make a brave last ditch tackle on the edge of the d to clear the danger.

The away side then got one back.

Saxons scored once more through a penalty flick scored by Coombs, the umpire awarding the flick for a foot on the line from a shot by Reed which most thought had crossed the line.

Skipper, Jamie Busbridge, back from his winter break was on target to score Saxons final goal.

Middleton did score a consellation goal late on which led to a nervous final five minutes for both sides.

In summary, it was a good performance against a strong opposition, to get over the past 2 loses. Saxons travel to Worthing this week.

Match ball sponsors - Old el Paso restaurants
MOTM - Paddy Cornish