Men’s 2s Match reports

Anchs 2’s started their league campaign with a convincing 5-2 victory against a youthful Blackheath side. With the average age of the team approaching 40, the pre-match words of skipper Ben fell on deaf ears and the visiting side dominated the opening exchanges. Only some staunch defending from Pricey, Mikey and keeper Phil kept Blackheath at bay. Things weren’t helped when the returning Pete picked up an early injury.

But the home side always looked dangerous on the break and Joel bundled in the opening goal after an excellent advantage was played by umpire Richard Pethick. Anchs pressed forward and scored two more before the break, the first from Chris and the second from Joel after a pass from Risby.

All looked good at the interval and early in the second half Joelcompleted his hat trick after a thumping cross from Risby was totally missed by the defender. With such a comfortable lead it was almost inevitable that Anchs would sit back a bit. And despite some immense work in midfield by Tom and Roger, Blackheath nicked a goal back from a short corner. There followed a comedy moment when brotherly love took an unusual turn when Ash and Chris fell in a heap when chasing after the same ball - stupid Risby brothers!

James then restored the 4 goal advantage with a diving slapped finish. Risby Junior then proceeded to blast a shot past the post with Joel free at the back post, rightly earning him the prize prat award for the day. Blackheath then applied some late pressure and even the twinkle-toed defending of Neil couldn’t prevent Blackheath getting a second consolation goal. There was time for veteran MOTM LD to give Phil a minor heart attack when deflecting the ball past the post just before the final whistle.

A great result for Anchs and a cracking start to the season.