As both teams lined up, both teams this was going to be an important game. Wixams had started the season with two wins and two defeats, but those losses were against the top 2 in the league. Galaxy, for their part, had been on the wrong end of close matches recently and were looking for their first league win of the season since the opening day.

The importance of the match was immediately reflected in the high tempo and intensity that both teams displayed.

After 4 minutes the first good movement from Spartak led to cross from Luke W into box, but unfortunately no one was there to finish. Wixams themselves had some early pressure from corners, but this was dealt with by some very good defending by Dylan, something which proved to be a theme for the match.

Chances in the first half were few and far between with both sides working hard. Linslade's best moment in the opening 35 minutes came from a Jack J battling in midfield. He pushed the ball into the box but brave goalkeeping prevented Luke W from shooting.

Both teams cancelling each other out. Spartak were pressing well and were keeping their shape well, reducing Wixams' chances to corners. Dylan, in particular, was playing a blinder, well supported by Caelan.

Wixams for their part always seemed to have a second player to cover and equally prevented any shots on goal.

Overall, it was a goalless and very even first half. The second half was a question of who had the fitness and desire to maintain the level of intensity seen in the first. In the end both team continued to show that battling spirit right until the final whistle.

Wixams, however, definitely upped their game and had, by far, the better chances. On 6 minutes there was good play from Wixams. The ball came out centrally at the edge of the box, but the midfielder skied his effort. Then just a minute later they hit the crossbar from a 25 yard free kick. After 18 minutes there was more Wixams pressure, but another effort went over the bar to the relief of the Spartak supporters.

Spartak for long periods in the second half were struggling to maintain possession and put together attacks. Finally on 29 minutes there was good work from Tycho in midfield, which led to Luke W turning in box, but his shot was a relatively comfortable one for the goalkeeper.

As the ref played nearly five minutes of injury time there was more nervousness for Galaxy as Wixams attacked once more. Thomas was forced into a smart near post save and he outstretched his leg to prevent another attempt.

In the end Spartak were glad to hear the final whistle. Over the course of the match Wixams had edged it, but defensively Spartak were very solid with Niall, Owen, Ethan, Joseph, Elliot and Caelan all playing important roles at different times. The star of the show, though, was definitely Dylan with his reading of the game, interceptions, and ball distribution - a true defensive masterclass.

The matches will only get harder for the rest of October with an away match at TFA next Saturday. But with the same desire and hard work, Galaxy can make the trek to Northampton with confidence.