Old Actonians Veterans v Ascot United 2nd X1 Veterans

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Well done today, chaps.

As we discussed post-match, we knew this would be a challenging fixture. Actonians have an impressive record with 9 wins out of 9, and playing away to them was always going to be one of the toughest tests in this league.

That being said, to hold them at 0-0 for the first 35 minutes was a testament to our solid defending, determination and character. Conceding that first goal just before half-time was unfortunate and something we’d collectively like to do better with next time.

Coming out for the second half, we showed great spirit and played with confidence, creating more chances and looking like the better team. The penalty decision at around the 60th minute was incredibly frustrating and felt unjust – even the Actonians were surprised by it, I’m not one to whinge but it was a shocking call from the ref. Regardless, we found ourselves 2-0 down, which made the task even harder and really took the wind out of our sails…

Despite the setback, we continued to push forward and didn’t let our heads drop. Actonians managed the game well though and caught us with a few goals as we pressed higher up the pitch. However, the effort, commitment, and heart shown by Ascot players were unwavering.

Let’s take the positives from this game, learn from it, and come back stronger. A few highlights:

@⁨Jon Keough⁩ making his playing return – upfront, think a cross between Martin Keown (looks) and Dion Dublin (in more ways than one)

@⁨~Collins⁩ getting his first 90 mins for the club – great effort fella and nearly bagged a bicycle kick! Decent “buffet” gag to their GK too…

@⁨~Eryk Nawala⁩ – some good distribution today out of hand, particularly second half – unlucky to concede 5

@⁨~DB⁩ – ankle prevented him playing but still came and led from the sidelines – absolute club ledge

@⁨~Stu⁩ – mr versatile, ran for days with a great eye for a pass and certainly my go-to teammate when it started getting tasty.

Great effort all round boys. Sorry I couldn’t stay at the pub – early flight for work tomorrow morning so needed to get home to see the kids.

Onwards and upwards, team! 💪⚽