Chiltern and South Bucks League Football - Gateway v Holmer Green, Tuesday 23 February 2016

With two regular defenders unavailable for selection, Sam M and Guy J were relieved of their midfield duties and hauled into defence With two matches on consecutive nights it was also thought prudent to rotate several players to avoid fatigue.

Matches against Holmer Green are always keenly contested and this one was no exception. Gateway started brightly, pressing their opponents; not allowing them time on the ball. There were some thumping tackles as both teams battled to win midfield and create scoring opportunities.

Gateway had the better of the early goal attempts with several good chances. One goalmouth scramble saw the Holmer Green keeper make three fine, close range, saves only to see Josh P then fire the ball against the post! Holmer Green attacked in style but the defence stood firm, blocking and clearing any developing threat.

The game was finely poised until a speculative long range shot looped over James G leaving him little chance of saving.

With 2 minutes to go, Gateway gambled; committing more players forward, hoping to find the equaliser, only to be caught out by another superbly struck long range shot. A final flurry saw Holmer Green snatch a 3rd goal; a bitter blow for a Gateway team who had shown such fortitude during this exciting match. The Holmer Green manager was quick to congratulate all the boys for such an entertaining and competitive match. HJ

Squad: James G, Guy J, Sam M, Alex P, Josh P, Scott G, H Sutaria, Hector C, Brandon N-T, (C).