Epsom: 2 (Midmer, Marfleet)
Canterbury 2s: 1
An inspired performance from goalkeeper James Tuck and a heroic defensive effort all round saw Epsom to a 2-1 win against Canterbury 2s at Old Schools Lane.
Canterbury had comprehensively dispatched Epsom 4-0 at the start of the season and they looked in the mood again early on. Canterbury applied constant pressure but Epsom were tight in defence and James Tuck made a number of sharp stops at short corners. Against the run of play Epsom worked a move down the right channel and Mark Frawley drove in to tee up James Midmer to slam home. Just before half time a patient Epsom attack saw a superb reverse ball from Joe Lazell create havoc and result in a penalty stroke. Jack Marfleet stepped up to make it 2-0 at half-time.
The second half was similar in style with Canterbury pressing hard but Epsom working like terriers in defence with Brett Hosken and Joe Lazell constantly firefighting. Epsom started to get chances to seal the game on the counterattack, but a few came and went. Canterbury then scored with 10 minutes remaining to ensure a nervy finish, but Epsom’s defence continued to be tight and another phenomenal save from Tuck in the closing stages secured the three points.
This was a really hard-working performance with the defensive squad of Joe Lazell, Brett Hosken, Alex Bond, James Hunt and Angus Keast all superb, and Jack Marfleet and Adam Barker both brilliant further forward. James Tuck was voted deserved man of the match. It was a much needed win as all the other sides around Epsom won, meaning they stay sixth. More results are needed in a tight table.
ADVERT ALERT: The Men’s 1s are running their annual Race Night fundraiser at the clubhouse on Saturday 1 February at 19:30. It’s a fun night with food available (meat and veg chilli), 8 races on the big screen and a fully functioning Tote. It will immediately follow the Ireland vs Scotland Six Nations game for those who fancy a few warm-up beers and obviously a great way to end dry January. Tickets / Horses / Food are available from Men’s 1s representatives at all times, they will be in the clubhouse over the next two Saturdays.