It was a wet day at Warners Bridge, there were concerns around the strength of Old Loughts team, but the spirit was positive before the game. This was a game that Old Boys needed to win to continue their push at the top of the table, making sure we keep the gaps to those chasing.

It was clear from the start, Old Loughts had a good mixture of experience and youth and they're plan was to press high up the pitch and make it difficult for us to play out from the back. It was quite an even start to the game from both sides, then Adam decided to turn on the afterburners (miracle recovery after not being able to walk after the game the week before) down the right hand side and the Old Loughts defence could only watch as he made his way to the bottom of the D, before laying it back to George who was on hand to bury the ball to make it 1-0. The hard-fought contest continued for the rest of the half, and we went in with the slender lead at halftime.

The start of the second half was quite eventful, green cards for both Asa and Matt, then the latter feeling aggrieved for his 2-minute rest (which he was heard quoted was more like 3 minutes as he was timing!). Once Matt was back on the pitch, Old Loughts decided to play out from the back by playing straight to Matt (perhaps they thought he was still on the bench!), who quickly noticed that George was free at the top of the box, who with a cool finish make sure of the second goal to give us a bit more breathing space.

We thought this might give us the comfort of a two-goal advantage, however Old Loughts did not tire, and they continued to press and look for a way back into the game. Old Boys were standing firm, Old Loughts were keeping their tradition but being in your face and there was a big team effort to try and see out the game, the defence were looking rock solid and showing why we had only conceded 9 goals all season . It looked like we were going to see the game out, only for a short corner right on the final whistle and could the defence hold out for another clean sheet. Unfortunately following a deflection, Old Loughts got what was probably their deserved goal however the final whistle went and meant that the unbeaten run continues which now stands at 16 games going back to 15 February 2025, which was also against an Old Loughts side.

Hard fought game against a good Old Loughts side, but a really great 2-1 win which ensures that we will remain top of the table at Christmas!

Special mention to Pete Borrie, who played a key role in rotating and playing important minutes in the midfield, but also to Calen and Alex who made their M3's debuts and showed their skill on the wings when they got the opportunity. Also gave them glimpses of Old Loughts as they will be playing them the following week.

Congratulations to Asa and Pete Cossey for their first call ups to the M2's.

Whilst it was a real team effort, however MOM went to a clear winner, George, which was fully deserved after not only scoring both the goals, but also for leading the line and his general centre forward play to occupy the Old Loughts backline. George is now finding his feet, after a break from old Boys and improving game on game.

Scorers: George Miller

MOTM: George Miller

Match Report: Darren