After having to forfeit their previous game, Phoenix Lions were back in competitive action for the final time this season. Petts Wood Petrels were the opponents. The two teams were involved in an entertaining 3-3 draw earlier in the season.
Long term injuries meant Archie Roast and Jai Carter were still missing along with Josh Anderson and George Dennington who were unavailable meaning the Lions would have to play with 8. Lions were also back at Phoenix for the first time this season on their makeshift 9-a-side pitch which although ok in length, was far too narrow. However, with only 8 players available this week, it might work out in Phoenix favour.
In Josh’s absence, Tom Wray was in goal this week with a back 3 in front of him of sweeper Charlie Hanmore flanked by Euan Corbett-Smith and James Ash. Protecting them in the centre of midfield was Ben Chesley with Jack Whitman and Oscar Hart providing width and support. Leading scorer Henry Powell took up the lone striker position.
Kick Off
Phoenix started well and adapted better to the narrow pitch. The midfield dropped back well and the defence were disciplined in making sure they were never left 2 v 1. Petts Wood like to play on the edge of off-side but were never given the chance to break clear. Anything kicked long, Tom Wray was quick off his line to clear.
Henry Powell was doing the work of 2 players, chasing back to win the ball then getting himself back up front to be ready for any chances that came his way.
It was Phoenix playing all the football – as they had done in recent weeks against better opposition – and were making light of being a man light.
After about 20 minutes, the Lions got a deserved breakthrough as Henry Powell once again chased down a seemingly lost cause up front and found himself through on goal where he neatly slotted past the Petts Wood keeper. Phoenix 1 Petts Wood 0.
The half wasn’t without chances for Petts Wood though. In fact they almost drew level immediately. The ball fell to the Petts Wood midfielder who hit a fierce shot from close range only to see a superb save from Tom Wray who managed to tip it over the bar.
Half time approached and the Phoenix boys were determined to keep their lead intact which they did.
Half Time – Phoenix Lions 1 Petts Wood Petrels 0
Without any subs, Phoenix started the second half as they finished the first. Disciplined and with all the boys working hard to try and create. Oscar Hart and Jack Whitman finding space well out wide.
Early in the second half, the first signs came that Petts Wood might get back into it. They pushed an extra player up and started to create chances. Tom Wray again having to make a superb save low to his left to keep Phoenix in the lead.
Another Petts Wood breakaway led to another great save from Tom but this time the ball cannoned off the post and fell to the Petts Wood midfielder who slotted home for 1-1. The first time in the match the defence had switched off and they were punished.
But the Lions heads did not go down and even in the soaring heat they continued to work as a unit from back to front.
They deservedly went in front again after some good work from Jack Whitman found Henry Powell to score his 28th of the season. Phoenix 2 Petts Wood 1.
Concentration would be the key now and captain for the day Charlie Hanmore and Euan Corbett-Smith made sure they gave nothing away and cleared the ball at any sign of danger. Tom Wray also sweeping behind and launching some huge goal kicks helped give the boys some breathing space. James Ash was working hard up and down the left supporting Oscar Hart. Ben Chesley continued to sit and break up play.
It was Jack Whitman on the right and Henry Powell who were causing Petts Wood all sorts of problems.
As the clock ticked down and some of the boys began to tire, a superb team move sealed the game. Petts Wood tried to break through but were unable to get past a determined back line and the ball fell to Ben Chesley. Ben found Oscar who looked up and saw Jack breaking away down the right. Jack sent over a superb cross to the feet of Henry who got his and Phoenix third of the afternoon. Phoenix 3 Petts Wood 1
As the players lined up for kick off, the referee had seen enough and blew his whistle.
Full Time – Phoenix Lions 3 Petts Wood Petrels 1
Another great win for the Lions to finish the season, especially considering they played 8 v 9 in the hot sunshine! The fitness and determination of the boys shone through and bodes well for next season.
The boys now embark on their first ever end of season tour to the ESF Festival of Football at Butlins in Bognor Regis where they will pit themselves against teams from Wales, West Sussex, Cheltenham, Northampton, Middlesex, Hampshire and Buckinghamshire over 2 days.
Whatever happens at Butlins, it has been another great season for the boys where they have all continued to develop their footballing ability, teamwork and have grown fitter every week. All things both Jason and Martyn will want to carry into the 2014-2015 season along with an increased competitive edge.
Well played boys and thanks to Jason, Martyn and Carol for all their hard work during the season.
Come on you Lions!!
