Stroud take it to the wire (From Stroud News and Journal)

Stroud take it to the wire

Stroud Men's 1st XI 2 Cardiff University A 1

STROUD'S bid to win the Gerrard League was kept firmly in place with another hard-fought win against a Cardiff side behind them on goal difference.

On a glorious sunny afternoon the home side started in buoyant mood. Every player worked their socks off for the victory with plenty of support. Particular mention goes to Matt Pearce whose efforts earned him the man-of-the-match award. The students' youthfulness gave Stroud some problems but with the likes of Rob Fynn, Rob Sharman and Rob Dove defending resolutely, Stroud kept them at bay.

Midway through the first half Andy Hines shot was helped home by Pearce. Minutes later, a class move by Pearce and Alex Waring saw the latter score a sweet goal through the advancing keeper's legs.

Two goals up at half-time and they were in control, but you can never write off student sides altogether and they eventually began to make life tricky for Stroud.

Tracking back

With the forwards tracking back to help Liam Tunney and Hines in midfield, Stroud attempted to snuff out potential attacks. Tim Norman halted one attack and fed the ball to a speeding Steve Shipp in their own 25 and the attack almost led to another Waring goal but somehow petered out in the opposition 25.

Cardiff managed to pick up a goal and a tense 10 minutes at the end of the match saw Stroud come close again, then have to defend dramatically. Several short corners and goal-mouth scrambles should have given Stroud more goals but this was not to be.

Ashley Hicks had another sound game in goal. Matt Waite and Alan Edwards also performed well but what really made the difference was the team spirit. Stroud really wanted this win and they got what they deserved.