Spa Five Star Fathoms

Droitwich Spa Fathoms went into the their third game looking for a confidence boosting win after defeats against a strong Pershore side a competitive Old Silhillians outfit.

Droitwich went for an experienced back three to give the side the platform to go and attack with Robin Lee; Simon Blackmore and Mathew Mason.

From the first whistle Spa attacked with pace and verve with Callum Turner and Ollie Oxley mounting down attacks down either flanks as Berkswell were pushed to defend deep in the circle. Many of the attacks were built on swift one twos which provided space on the flanks for Sigmund Rumney on the left as well Joe Brett and Edward Battin who provided the ammunition for Tommy Ross who had the first meaningful opportunity whose shot sailed just wide.

Opportunities continued to created with Matthew Gurr and Tommy Ross continued to but it was David Purchase who scored first with hard low shot after good work down the right. Spa were soon 2-0 up after the move of the game. Callum turned picked the ball up in the middle of the park who moved the ball onto Oliver Oxley who played it out to the right before Tommy Ross cooly slotted the ball to the right of the keeper.

Droitwich took the foot off the gas which began to cost them as play became fractured and rushed. This allowed Berkswell centre back to dictate play and fashion chances. The only chance that came their way was at the back stick as Droitwich defence could not deal with a ball and a reverse stick shot from an accute angle and pulled a goal back

This meant Droitwich got back to basics and moving the ball around and moving their defence, thus creating numerous other chances. Peter Gurr rounded off the scoring in the first half after a neat deflected finish at the back post after neat approach play.

Words of wisdom from Robin Lee and Simon Blackmore who asked for the side to be confident moving the ball around and not to be complacement and keep the work rate going.

From the start of the second half, the rolling subs took a while to ajust.

Berkswell were unable to pressurise Droitwich too much, any chances that were created were snuffed out by Simon Blackmore; Robin Lee and Matthew Mason before they called on Cameran Grant to make a save.

Droitwich had many chances which fell to Callum Turner; Matthew Gurr and Tommy Ross. Droitwich finally managed to extend their advantage after 20 second half minutes as David Purchase managed to add a second to his season tally of four. Shortly after umpires consulted the teams to ask about the light (here's me thinking that only happens in cricket)!!! But decided to go on

Matthew Gurr close range finish added some gloss to the score line and leave the final score of 5-1.

Fantastic to see the maturity of the younger players in the middle of the park and on the flanks who distributed the ball well and movement was good.

Droitwich next game is against Kidderminster on November 22nd 2014