M1 vs Barford Tigers

CCHC vs Barford Tigers M1

After a disappointing Round One loss, Cambridge City men’s firsts travelled to Barford for their first away fixture of season 22/23. The day began with a meeting at Kettering services where American, multinational arabica coffee was consumed, an unusual choice for the side that has a panache for more nuanced artisan varieties. A notable absentee from the meet was coach Grant, who seemingly had other matters on his mind (most probably the impending birth of his second child).

Upon arriving at Barford, Cambridge received a warm welcome from the hosts who showed a level of hospitality and conviviality that continued throughout the day. A lack of caffeine did not deter Grant who delivered concise magnet based instructions on his oversized whiteboard.

The game began at a frenetic pace with Cambridge winning an early penalty corner. The first quarter was end to end; with both sides gaining strong field position that was thwarted by both good defence and a series of errors. Against the run of play Barford would break the deadlock with some opportunistic attacking play that culminated with a streaky finish on the back post.

The second period was Cambridge’s, with City increasing the pressure on Barford’s defence creating a number of excellent chances. 1-0 became 1-1 when Duncan calmly finished from close range. Barford would continue to challenge the Cambridge defence, however Wiseman, Spreck and Bucknall absorbed much of the pressure, propelling any forward play. Overall it was Cambridge having the better of the half.

At half time wise words from Grant, and his whiteboard would see an immediate response from Cambridge. The second half saw the boys from City increasingly in control creating a number of excellent scoring chances. Barford, undefeated at home in the previous season did not abate and continued to create opportunities. As the game progressed, City were still full of running, however, as the time ticked down, fatigue became a factor for the locals with Barford relying on Cambridge errors to create chances generating little from their back half.

Superior possession saw Cambridge create a number of chances with the final goal remaining elusive. The match was looking like a boil over until some excellent forward play saw the ball in the hands of Price. Alleviated of the burden of his hat, Pricey ran the right baseline, drew the foul and won a penalty stroke. Connor converted to much jubilation from the Cambridge supporters and players. This seemingly burst the Barford bubble who were now out on their feet and unable to press Cambridge in the last few minutes. Cambridge would run out 2-1 winners!

Goals: Duncan Rudd & Conor Annand (Penalty Stroke)

POTM: Tom Spreckley

📷 Simon Webb - from previous week v Olton & West Warwickshire