The Battle Was Won

A grey day in Aldershot as Hook arrived for the first league meeting in the next 2 against Junior Shots. Off the back of a good win against Tadley, the manager drummed in to the boys about the need to maintain focus, discipline and concentration... especially as there were 2 players missing from the full compliment.

Reverting back to a 2-4-2 formation, Hook absolutely dominated the early first half, with a number of great chances, hitting the bar, the post and a few close misses - eventually the reward came, with good work from S G and a neat touched finish from B E. The lead was possible due to some superb work across the team and a notable performance from A D as the holding midfielder protecting the 2 defenders so well.

A good break and solo effort gave Shots a leveller as half time approached.

The talk at the break directed the boys to not allow themselves to be affected by the 'shenanigans' from the Shots by way of verbal distractions and also allow the ref to pick up the obvious pushing and pulling. Stay focused and keep playing their own game.

The next goal came from the Shots, by way of a quick counter-attack from a little bit of wayward formation from Hook but the rallying continued.

As Hook continued to chase the game, press hard and take the advantage in play, the chances were coming. Unfortunately, there was a little over-exuberance from the challenges made by the Shots, eventually a couple of dangerous challenges led to an injury, a penalty and a second injury. Calm is what was needed from both sides.

Overall, this was a very hard-fought match, Hook deservedly taking the points but the gloss was definitely missing. The players must take heart from their efforts today; some opposition will be physically and mentally tougher to overcome - and Hook showed they can deal with it, as uncomfortable as it is.

It was very difficult again to choose MoM - very solid display across the pitch again, A D certainly standing out, S G showing some real creativity and battling so hard, the defensive pair of D S and T R having to face a lot of pressure at times and dealing with it well.

Overall, for his work-rate, battling and dealing with an odd penalty situation - the first disallowed for the manager and sub still being on the pitch, followed by some barracking from the opposition trying to put him off, but still scoring - MoM goes to B E.

Same again next week...??