Another away trip, another pitch on a school field with grass that’s far too long! Wilmslow is our furthest away game, but all 10 Vikings made it there to give us a full squad on a chilly morning.

We kept the same formation that we trialled last week as generally all seemed happy and understood their new job well.

The first period started really brightly, we were moving the ball around well and creating chances, some flashing just wide, some being stopped by the Wilmslow goalie, with another thumping against the post. Somehow, the period ended 0-1 to Wilmslow, but we were very much in the game.

Often, the second period is our worst, but thankfully today was not the case. Our forward players were full of running and the equalising goal soon came, a good move up the pitch created a bit of pinball just inside the area, and Lewis was able to get the decisive touch to register his first goal of the season.  No sooner had we scored, we were behind again, Wilmslow catching us a little cold as they regained the lead. The Vikings worked hard, Tyler and the defence looked solid and his long goal kicks were giving our opposition problems. Xavier gathered the ball from one such clearance and sped down the left wing, before cutting in and firing home from a tight angle, an excellent individual goal. It was a shame the break came when it did, because we were well on top, overall score 2-2.

The third period was always going to be a tense affair, both teams knew they were right in the game and both were really hungry for the win. It was an end-to-end 15 minutes, with the Vikings putting in a huge effort, backed by our fantastic supporters. We had more of the ball and the bulk of the chances, but sadly a long range effort from Wilmslow was to prove the difference, final score 2-3.

Without doubt, this was our best performance of the season, and we didn't deserve to lose. Individual players are making progress and as a team we are looking stronger every week. We have great spirit and play the game with a terrific attitude, and the elusive first win is very, very close.

It was very difficult to pick our Player of the Match, as everyone contributed a great deal. Like last week, Charlie was top class in the central role, working so hard. All the defenders looked strong, Sam “Gilbo” Gilbert was very impressive again.  We looked sharper going forward and now have more options, Xavier scored a cracking goal and contributed well. Tom and Lewis both showed some lovely touches and good running with the ball, all 3 forward players were unlucky not to score more. Our Player of the match award went to Lewis, great determination to score his first goal, and full of effort all match.

We will keep on, and the win will come. Well done to ALL the players, and thank you to our brilliant supporters.

Rob H