Falcons win 1-0 against Guildford in a tight hard fought game

Falcons entered the fixture keen to reverse the defeat away at Guildford but had to shuffle resources as the squad reduced before the game started. Whether this influenced the early exchanges or perhaps the lack of a game for 2 weeks had an impact, Falcons soon found themselves on the back foot.

Most of the early exchanges were in the Falcons half and whilst the back line of Billington, Heinrich, Jones and Blomley looked secure the distribution to break out constantly found the opposition as they made it difficult for themselves.

Midway through the first half Falcons began to find their mojo, and although narrow in their approach they were creating problems in and around the D through the pace of Sumser, and the inter-change between Doggett and Buzz Burrell.

Some good chances went begging and whilst securing a number of short corners, no real direct strikes were causing problems as the ball was closed effectively and second phase ball was not used clinically.

Second half and at 0-0 the Falcons midfield began to assert its influence. Warner was able to find space and Burrell and Bowden could finally release Sumser and White on the wings. At this point it was hard to pick out individuals as every-one stepped up their game and yet the Guildford goal-line remained hard to cross. Doggett, Sumser and White all came close, and the tenacity of Warner and forward runs from Jones pressed the Guildford defence for a 20 minute spell which saw 4 further short corners. 

A short pass to Bowden on the left from one of these saw an excellent save from the keeper as what looked like a certain goal from Bowden's flick was deflected over the bar by the keeper's stick.

Another short corner sealed the game. Heinrich and Doggett had indicated the left post option and as the well struck drive from Warner crashed the back board inside the left post both would claim an assist for the goal.

At this point Falcons looked certain to increase their lead but the Guildford keeper had continued his strong game and thwarted Whitey, Sumser and Doggett from further goals. Potter was perhaps a little unlucky as the ball fell to him on the left post for an open net but the whistle had gone for an earlier infringement.

Their were several candidates for man of the match, particularly for the second half performance, but the beneficiary was Sumser for his selfless running down the right channel throughout the game.