Old Southendian Men’s 3s drew 2–2 with Old Loughts in what was a really hard-fought game on an unseasonably hot day.
Old Loughts had five subs to our none, so we knew it was going to be a tough afternoon, especially as most of our team had not played together before. Despite that, we gelled very quickly and every player put in a huge shift. The effort from everyone could not be faulted.
We were probably a little unlucky to find ourselves 2–0 down. Rich had made great saves for both goals, but Old Loughts followed their shots well and were first to the rebounds.
A well-worked goal finished by Simon P got us right back into the game at 2–1.
Not long after, Mike made a goal-line clearance with his chest, only for a penalty flick to be awarded. Luckily for us, the Old Loughts striker could only hit the post.
We went into half-time 2–1 down, tired but pretty satisfied with the shift we had put in and knowing we were still right in the game.
Just 20 seconds into the second half we were level. A breakaway saw James score to make it 2–2, and from there either side had chances to go on and win it.
There was some excellent defending at both ends of the pitch, with good attacks being stopped by last-ditch tackles and saves.
In the end, 2–2 was probably a fair reflection of the game. But with no subs, a makeshift Old Southendian side and the heat to contend with, it felt like a hugely satisfying result.
A really good team effort from everyone.

Noel