Cranleigh U16’s entertained Copthorne this weekend on the Bruce McKenzie Memorial Field, which was in fine condition. The team went into the game full of confidence after back to back wins, but did not start well as Copthorne, who are yet to claim a point this season, scored twice within the opening three minutes through two uncharacteristic Cranleigh defensive errors.
Despite being shocked by the way the game had started Cranleigh were not phased and stuck to their game plan and after dominating play pulled one back after seventeen minutes as Maxim Sheik tapped in from close range. In the 38th minute the excellent Ben Cole found the equaliser having struck the crossbar moments earlier. Sapped of their early confidence Copthorne’s heads went down and the flood gates opened. Sheik added two more to gain his hat trick and substitute Matthew Clarke scored an uncharacteristic header just before the break. So Cranleigh went into half time having turned around the early setback to lead 5-2.
Cranleigh continued to dominate play after the start and added early goals through substitute Harvey Stiles and Ben Cole. Copthorne continued to attack and Cranleigh’s defence were tested several times midway through the half, but Callum Jones and Jack Dowdall remained solid at the defence’s heart. Harvey Stiles and Matthew Clarke grabbed two each in the closing stages of the game to complete and excellent footballing performance from the team.
The game finished 11-2. A great way for Cranleigh to claim their first league win and a great confidence booster ahead of next weekend’s trip to high flying Three Bridges in what will be a keenly fought match for which the team will need to be at their very best.
