On Sunday The Fleet returned to league duties with a comfortable win over early relegation favourites AEI Sunday. They made it 3 league wins in a row and moved 2nd on goals scored.
An indifferent start to the match saw Fleet waste possession on a number of occassions in the first 15 minutes or so, but still created a few chances, due to a few raids down the left from the impressive Mark Crane. On 18 minutes Eddie set Hambo free who finished well past the on rushing keeper for 1-0. We instantly settled and AEI had no reply, although the ref tried his best to keep it a contest - in not administring the proper punishment to a clear elbow on Craig - which should of been a red.
A couple of more chances went begging as we found the big goalie a tough nut to crack. Hambo creating mischief with his high energy levels, was clattered in the box for a blatant penalty - Rich Sav stepped up and missed, but needless to say that only spurred us on and within a minute or two we had a second penalty as neat work by Eddie & Rich forced the defender into delibrilately handling the ball - a 2nd penalty and yellow card shown. Rich Sav stepped up and made amends for 2-0. The third came just before half time, such was our dominance this wont be remembered come goal of the season, but it should be - for the numerous passes we made prior to Eddie finishing with such applomb for his 5th of the season. A classy move from the back, into midfield, out to the right, then square to Sam who slid the ball beautifully for Eddie to finish - pure class. An impressive first half capped by a wonderful goal.
The 2nd half started and AEI caught us napping slightly, but a generous penalty was given as Craig stepped across the attacker who made a meal of it and the ref blew for the spot kick. If it was against any other player it would probably not of been given - I think it was only given cos Craig played for them last season. Rikki beaten with a straight down the middle penalty for 3-1. AEI's brief ascension in the game was short lived as we returned to the classy passing and was always on the front foot looking for more goals. All players playing their part in an excellent team performance. The first change was made Adam replacing Hambo with Nath moving up front, our 4th came on 69mins, when Eddie floating in from the left, skinned a couple of players with a neat pirouette then released rich Sav who finished well for 4-1. Eddies work was done as he was replaced by Ryan, who had a good chance to score, but was unlucky not to convert. A couple of more chances were created but the score remained 4-1. 3 more points and 2nd in the table. an excellent start to the season.
We have a week off due to a bye in the League Cup A. So enjoy the rest/lay in.
A special mention to Eddie and Nath who picked up the joint player of the month award for September - Mick Hills taking the Reserve player of the month award.
Keep up the good work and lets see where it takes us.
