LX up North(umberland)
After many weeks of snow and low temperatures it was a
delight to run out into warm sunshine without gloves and woolly hats, deep in
the Northumberland countryside.
On a sloping pitch, LX
found themselves going uphill from the word go in both senses! With Morpeth
moving the ball sweetly around in the early exchanges LX had their hands full
coping with lively opponents. It was apparent that the Morpeth wingers were
quick on both sides and Robin Mayes and Andy Holden did well to protect Mike
Fripp in front of goal. Breaking forward for the first time in the match, LX
took the lead against the run of play when Peter Ross was on hand to finish off
a well worked move, sweeping the ball past the ‘keeper. Unfortunately, this lead
was wiped out in quick time when Morpeth moved onto the attack and equalised
with a speedy riposte. The overworked LX defence were finding it difficult to
relieve the pressure and the LX forwards were struggling to influence the
pattern of play. Morpeth
then moved into the lead when the Umpire allowed a quick penalty corner and Mike
Fripp was helpless as a strong shot hit the backboard.
Resuming after
the break, LX huffed and puffed in midfield with Bob Purshouse, Ray Jeff, Bill
Pickersgill and Peter Danson endeavouring to break out of their own half of the
field. But all to no avail as the opposition snuffed out any promising moves
before they could develop. Morpeth moved on to score a further 3 goals without
reply and LX were relieved to hear the final whistle.
With the opposition being largely the team that had won the game the day before, LX were obliged to rethink their strategy in order to compete. In an attempt to provide more options when in possession, LX opted for a four man midfield and a sweeper,
Andy Holden playing behind the full backs, Robin Mayes and Bill Pickersgilland with John Land dropping back to make the four in midfield. This arrangement immediately paid off as the Pallatics forwards found a resolute defence whenever they attacked and LX also had more options when attempting to clear their lines. Enjoying a greater share of possession, LX now had more control of the midfield and as they moved forward the attack carried more of a threat and the front two, Graham George and Peter Ross with Bill Warrender tucking in behind were seeing more of the ball. Territorially, Pallatics were on top but scoring opportunities were very limited and there was no score at the break.
Continuing the second half where they left off, LX forced a short corner but were unable to capitalise. Play was mainly in midfield but just as it looked as if LX could hold out for a draw, lost possession gave Pallatics the opportunity they had been looking for and Mike Fripp was unable to prevent the score. Pressing forward to try and equalise, LX created a couple of chances but were unable to convert.
All present agreed that this was yet another most enjoyable meeting at two good venues and all members thanked Andy Holden for his efforts in arranging opposition and first class accommodation.
Squad: A. Holden;
M. Fripp; R. Mayes;
Your correspondent; Bill Warrender
