1st XI v Westbourne Drew 1-1

What a start to the campaign! S. Anselm’s were filled with misgiving, facing a keen Westbourne side, which a year previously had decimated the 1st team to win 7-1. Now a year later with only a limited number of indoor practices in preparation there was real trepidation.
The nightmare appeared to be becoming reality as a break in the first 2 minutes resulted in a open plot for the Westbourne Centre Forward, which he easily put away. In true S. Anselm’s style the team began the arduous fight back, repelling the continuing efforts of Westbourne. Captain, for the game Max H, led the retaliation playing some useful ball into the opposition half. Will A, making his debut in a S.Anselm’s football side, showed some real quality in the midfield. A series of breaks from Westbourne were defeated by the dogged S.Anselm’s defenders. Rufus excelled himself with his vigorous challenges and some beautiful goal saving tackles. Goalkeeper, Harry, displayed some great technique in the air and made some splendid saves.
The second half was a turning point for the home side, with S.Anselm’s at last making some headway and putting in , some shots to test the keeper This included some great efforts from Ollie N and Freddie H. A fortunate turn of fate occurred on a break from Max, when he was brought down inside the area giving us a penalty. Ollie N, as Vice Captain, opted to take the shot and coolly dispatched it into the left hand corner to bring us even. The last 10 minutes was a flurry of activity as Westbourne strived desperately to rally, but were impressively held out. Leaving it a 1-1 draw at full-time, which was a very respectable result. Man of the match is awarded jointly to Ollie N and Rufus. Well done guys, a great opening match!