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The vets were in friendly action this Friday against Leasowes Vets FC. Several regular faces were unavailable for selection which allowed for a few changes.
From early exchanges, it was clear that Leasowes were a well-drilled compact team with great positioning awareness. It’s fair to say the best side the vets have come up against so far.
Leasowes had more than their fair share of possession and created a few chances for themselves. Only heroics in defence and great goalkeeping from Russell kept the scores even at halftime.
Rare chances at the other end fell to Rich Efuna and Dan Mroczkowski who could have sneaked a goal each against the run of play.
HT 0-0
In the second half the Vets switched to 5 across in the middle to bolster the midfield and stop Leasowes from breaking through.
A much stronger display in the second half allowed for a few chances to come the Vets way. Danny Hitchmough had a great chance but was unable to convert his volley from just inside the box. Other chances fell to the vets as Rich Fryer’s cross come shot flirted with the Leasowes goal. It was looking more promising for the vets but not before Leasowes managed to convert one of their own chances.
0-1 70”
The vets dug in as Leasowes looked for a second. Craig Cooper at centre half was everywhere like man possessed with defending. Numerous times he flung his body into a challenge to ensure Leasowes was kept at bay.
The ball was then pumped long to James Slater who was tussling with the Leasowes centre back. Slater continued to battle for the ball and eventually mugged the defender on the byline. He squared the ball for Matt Turner who came running in off his wing. Turner now inside the box calmly slotted the ball home for 1-1.
1-1
85” Turner
The referee blew his whistle a short time later for full time.
Player manager Danny Hitchmough stated after the game “It was nervous slow start to the game for the vets which was exploited by the opposition. We pressed too high at times which stretched us and we played straight into their gameplay. We made a few changes and I was very pleased in the second half. We were far more disciplined and could have had a couple of goals. Leasowes are a very good side and we can be proud that we nicked a draw”
Craig Cooper was awarded man of the match for his tremendous defensive display.
The vets are next in action in the PSUK and are awaiting their next round opponents.