STUDLANDS ‘LAMPED’ AT LAMBTONS

A late change of venue saw the Jockeys entertain Studlands at Lambtons Playing fields, this then became more of a home game for the visitors. It was the only game being played and it was a tad sad for us veterans who recall in playing days past when all the pitches were employed and the changing rooms rammed with more than a 100 mostly overhung 20+ year olds, sharing stories of the previous nights escapades!

Despite last weeks spanking at Hemingford, manager Reedy was pleased to see such a large turn out of players. So pleased was he, he wisely decided to leave his boots in his bag, actions that were followed by Birdy and Fozzy (who was suffering the onset of a serious case of Manflu….poor lamb!). Unfortunately Mad Willy had to depart due to sad family reasons and our thoughts went with him. Pauly had called off earlier in the week when he realised his best mucker Loz was unavailable and was so distraught he felt couldn’t do the team justice without his ‘chum’ alongside….he came to add his support, so fair play to him.

This then forced a change of centre back pairing with Vowdy and Peaky stepping in. And what an admirable job they did??...totally stifling out Studlands main threat ‘Porky’ who in games past had proved our nemesis. This week, we actually had a proper keeper in Chris Conway, who went on to give one of his best performances for the team.

The Jockeys stormed to an early 2-0 lead thanks to a thunderous strike from Vinny and a cute placed shot from Phil that deceived the keeper. Brenn, playing on the pitch for the first time since his ‘quadruple by-pass’ showed us some of his golfing skills by completely shanking an opportunity before Connors added a third with a sublime first-timer from outside the box.

Possibly due to the constant team changes that were implemented during the second half the Jockeys took their foot off the pedal allowing Studlands back into the game. They pulled a goal back midway through the half but a combination of resolute defending and inspired ‘keeping by Chris, the game finished in a 3-1 victory.

Post match refreshments were taken at the Exning Road Club, where the 3-4 regulars that were there were amazed to see their Lounge suddenly transformed into a proper Sunday lunchtime drinking hole!!!

No game next week, but the following week we entertain our friends from Crofton,London, the game being played at Newmarket Town on the Saturday night, 6.30pm k.o.

I’m off now to reflect on the game and consider how I’m going to get the ‘terrible two’ Loz and Pauly, back in the team??...nice problem!!