Slazenger Men’s 3’s unbeaten start to the season came to an abrupt end with a 2-1 defeat to visitors Lincoln.
The visitors started much more brightly with more energy and greater intent when in possession. Despite wanting to start the match retaining possession and looking to build attacks down the flanks, the home side time and again gave the ball away cheaply and had to work very hard to get it back.
Slazenger’s were often overrun in midfield despite Aidan Hopkinson and Ste Robert’s best efforts and the forward line of Jack Mumford and Steve Johnson were often left isolated. The first goal resulted after one of many quick surges forward by Lincoln who were more clinical than Slazenger’s subsequently proved to be in front of goal. The rest of the first half remained the same scoreline thanks to Slazenger keeper Ralph Toon making several instinctive saves in a crowded goalmouth.
Second half the home team got to grips with the game more successfully but failed to utilise either of the wings. Despite creating numerous more chances than the opposition a mixture of poor finishing and quality goalkeeping ensured that when the visitors scored a second breakaway goal it was slightly against the run of play.
Slazenger’s responded by creating more pressure and finally man of the match Aidan Hopkinson coolly put one of the goalscoring opportunities away. However, despite continued efforts and lots of hustle and bustle the game remained 2-1 to the visitors.
Slazenger Mens 3rd’s next fixture is away at Doncaster.
