The battle of the Wanderers is a new fixture on the schedule but with some familiar faces on the opposition side, it’s feeling familiar. A rare visit to Brooklands school for the team and the pitch looks ideal. Coffee & toasties are available for the parents, which is a rare treat. The team news sees a welcome return to Shay, making it a full squad for the first time in a while. Vish is still on the pitch giving last minute instructions with the ref having to politely move him off.

It’s the deadly duo of Theo and Deven in attack, Alfie, Mikes & Ewan in the middle, Fred and Zach in defence and the ever reliable Henry in goal. Some good early link up play between the deadly duo leads to the first shot of the game for Alfie. Fred is showing some early tenacity in defence as Woodside start to press. A superb strike from distance gives Woodside an early advantage. Henry is quick off his line to win the one on one battle. Great save. Theo and Miles are showcasing their skills today and it’s helping us get some time in the opposition half.

The corner count is racking up for Galaxy as we start to apply our own pressure. Alfie and Fred are winning their battles, competing hard for every ball. A shot from distance by Deven is the closest we come to a goal ourselves with the half ending.

We’ve lost Miles and Alfie for the second half, so Shay and Alby step onto the field. Luca and Daisy replace Fred and Theo. Shay and Daisy start as Fred left off, tackling strongly for every ball. Luca has a speculative shot from distance that’s well held by the Woodside keeper. A little confusion at the back allows Woodside through to claim their second. A little against the run of play there. The corners keep coming for Galaxy but we fail to convert. A break from Woodside takes some exceptional defending to keep it out. I’ve no idea how, or who, blocked the efforts, but they did. Great defending.

Theo and Deven are linking up well again, helping us go close to pulling one back. Henry pulls off another good save and quickly puts us on the front foot, it’s Ewan who goes close this time. The whistle blows and it’s disappointing not to have got ourselves a goal but Woodside deserved the victory. Some strong performances today, especially in defence. POTM today was awarded to Fred who played a blinder. Luca was just as strong and deservedly picked up parents player.