The squad consisted of six Youth Team players four of which were still only 16. Ross McKenzie and Gino Castagna (both 16) made their debuts and played their first ever men’s game. Bradley Bridgewater made his first appearance for the club in five years having returned from University and long-term injuries. Ben Allen, Tom Allen and Redd Pratley we’re unavailable due to University whilst Jack Smith, Dan Townsend and Cameron Foster remained sidelined by injuries. Karl Roberts and Joey Hiscock were added to the squad looking for match fitness ahead of a busy schedule ahead for our First Team.

On a wet but firm playing surface it took time before Clanfield adapted to the lively conditions and found it difficult to find their rhythm. Whilst we looked solid defensively, we were uncharacteristically finding it hard to build patterns of play and string passes together. Abingdon were having the better of the play whilst Clanfield looked like they were a pass away from a dangerous counterattack.

Despite not being at our best, it was Clanfield who took the lead around the 40-minute mark. Gino Castagna looked a threat all afternoon down the left and it was his ball across the box that was laid off by Joey Hiscock before Karl Roberts struck home with a first-time effort. Just before the break Luke Haley made a crucial save one-on-one to keep it 1-0.

To win this game, Clanfield needed to improve second half and that was the message at half time. Credit to the players who responded and were much more clinical in the second half. It was against the run of play when Abingdon won a free kick to the right of our 18-yard box. The short free kick wasn’t dealt with and keeper Luke Haley watched a header loop over his head. 1-1, game on.

Clanfield responded well, not long after conceding, a ball across the box from Joey Hiscock fell to the arriving fullback Callum Davies who was swiped out. Penalty to Clanfield. Karl Roberts comfortably slotted home. 2-1.

The next goal was crucial. Another foul committed on Callum Davies around 25 years out lead to an excellent delivery by Jaden Mole. A misunderstanding between Bradley Bridgewater and Sam Orton fortunately lead to Clanfield’s 3rd with Sam tucking the ball away.

Good chances fell to Gino Castagna, Andy Barton and Elliot Want but it was Karl Robert who wrapped the game up. An excellent ball by Callum Davies put Karl Roberts one-on-one who confidentially went around the keeper to finish the game with his left foot. 4-1. Game over.

Generally, there wasn’t a lot between the two teams despite the score line. Clanfield were better in both boxes, defending excellently in their own box and were clinical in our oppositions box which ended up being the difference.

Good luck to Abingdon Town for the rest of the season and thank you for the chilli!