Senior 3s vs Marlborough in key league match against a team that is a genuine contender. Strong start by Radley. Dominant. Controlled. Positive, attacking football created space, midfield dominated and linked passes well. Football all Radley.

Despite the relentless Radley attack, Marlborough created some breakaway chances, leading to a couple of great saves from Matteo, including from a one on one. To counteract Radley the opposition became increasingly robust and were given huge latitude to do so. Radley’s continued sharp passing led to some good opportunities, including a well drive low shot from Lawrence that beat the keeper and just missed the upright. Hugo then timed an awesome half volley from 30 yards, hitting the crossbar with enormous force before Marlborough somehow scrambled the ball away.

Marlborough scored a goal against the flow of play after 30 min. The Radley defence had pulled right, leaving the back post area exposed. A strong shot from Marlborough was brilliantly saved by Matteo but an extra man on the back post picked up the rebound and the scoring was underway. This was quickly followed by a well hit long range shot by Louis, that rebounded and looped high into the line of the sun, forcing a great save by the Marlborough keeper.

Starting the second half 1-0 down Radley continued to play good football despite even higher levels of ‘off the ball’ action. Marlborough earned a corner against the run of play. Four tall men on attack and one connected to score a proper goal. 2-0.

Captain Ben then steadied the ship and Radley responded well, lifting their game even further – with relentless attacks. Yet another cross by Ruddy was deflected out by the defence but fell to a cool composed low drive by Campion into the back of the next to bring it back to 2-1. The Radley intensity then increased even further, with many shots and near misses, including another brilliant drive from Hugo that hit the woodwork …yet again. Sustained pressure led to a few more corners, and Matteo came out of goal to nearly convert right near the end, but it was not to be. Final score 2-1 to Marlborough.

MoM: Capt Campion for his composure under pressure, dominating the midfield, and keeping his team steady despite very challenging conditions. Oh – and for a quality goal.