The 5th team’s challenge for the league title continues despite an early set back in a very competitive and exciting game.
The game was billed as an exciting 6 pointer between 1st and 2nd place, a straight dogfight for promotion out of Div 6NWN.
Starting with a strong team the Dragons were keen to move forward but an extremely well taken goal from the far post with Leadenham’s centre forward roofing a cross first time 3 minutes into the game was a shock.
Despite this set back, the Dragons drove forward and continually looked dangerous especially through Howitt on the right, making a welcome return to the team. He along with the rest of the midfield started to control the majority of the play with the tenacity of Byrne often breaking down many of Leadenham’s attacks.
A number of attacks down the right with Sedgewick pushing up from defence to create an overlap lead to many chances and both Morley brothers were unlucky not to score as they tried to convert these crosses. Sedgewick’s and Morley’s play in defence was exemplary regularly thwarting Leadenham’s attacks and allowing them few chances.
Midway through the first half Waters equalised following up on a half save to equalise the score.
The second half continued in a competitive manner with Leadenham playing a clever quick passing game, using several players of considerable skill and pace. The Dragon’s defence and mid-field remained resolute and their keeper, Musgrove, needed to make only a couple of well timed clearances as they prevented any real chances in their D.
Penalty corners have not been as productive as they should be for the Dragons this season but the second week in a row, they managed to score one after an intelligent pass from Hotchkin to Teesdale lead to a looping pass to be converted once again by Waters.
Despite this setback, Leadenham continued in a positive manner, pushing forward to equalise but these hopes were effectively ended 5 minutes from time when Howitt picked up a well placed pass to use his considerable pace and skill to drive in from the right side and score from a narrow angle.
With a final score of 3-1, the Dragons face another tough game next week travelling away to an in form Louth side. The Dragons extending their gap on Leadenham in 2nd now leading by 6 points.

Goal Scorers: Steve Waters x2, Callum Howitt
Squad: Terry Musgrove GK, Jeremy Phipps C, Steve Knipe, Zach Morley, Oscar Morley, Michael Sedgwick, Mark Hotchkin, Nick Teesdale, Mike Bradshaw, Paul Byrne, Callum Howitt, Richard Gray, Steve Waters