Following days of solid rain from storm Goretti, it felt as if 2026 would start with the same rain drenched games as 2025 ended. What a delight it was getting up on Saturday morning, checking outside and seeing the sky was clear with no sign of rain. However, checking the temperature and seeing only 2 degrees I knew it was going to be cold. But with the thought of fine post game Street food (Dave Street food), I wrapped up in thermals and headed to the match.

In the bitter cold we took the field against Havering for the return match, which we won first time around. This time the team that Havering presented was unrecognisable from last time with higher skilled players included to ensure they weren't relegated. This was apparent when Havering scored in the first 5 minutes with another after about 20.

Although up against a superior team, the 6s played outstandingly with credit to all players keeping the opposition to only 2 goals in the first half.
With a gritty performance in the second half we were able to keep Havering at bay for most of the half and only conceded 1 goal near the end. All the while presenting ourselves with more opportunities in the D. All players played their best with Jonny getting man of the match with some brilliant saves.
All in all, and speaking to some others after the game, we all felt that it was a good start to 2026 and was a pleasurable, enjoyable game to be a part of.
Roll on next week and hopefully a bit more warm temperatures.

Match report - Baden