Lakeside’s next league encounter came in the form of last seasons division two champions Cheltenham Saracens.
After heavy rain in the morning, the pitch was still in good condition with both teams getting stuck in right from the start. Despite Lakeside starting well, it was Cheltenham Saracens who took a twelfth minute lead when an attack from the lefthand side was met by the Saracens striker in the 18yard box, who was fortunate enough to get a fine touch to give Cheltenham Saracens an early lead. Lakeside responded by putting Saracens under pressure and in the 18th minute were unlucky to see Cameron Smith’s free kick hitting the cross bar. Kurt Burrows, having another outstanding game for Lakeside, was put through by Luke Hitchman and after beating a couple of defenders was able to carmly slot pass the advancing keeper to register a fine goal.
In the second half, Lakeside were again taking the game to Saracens and for the second time were denied when a great effort from Bradley Barnard was smashed against the bar. Saracens were still causing Lakeside a few problems but great defending from Liam Powell, Harry Mansell, Josh Pugh and Mike Lloyd ensured keeper Rob Jones had enough protection. Lakeside were soon to go 2-1 up when a great run from the right back Liam Powell found Kurt on hand to claim his second goal of the game on the 50th minute. With Cameron and the injured Luke Hitchman bossing the centre midfield, Saracens were restricted to playing the long ball, which did not seem to unsettle the Lakeside defence. With time running out, Lakeside were awarded a free kick on the right hand side, which saw Budd Nicholson’s delivery met by the rising Luke Hitchman who powerfully headed home, only to be disappointed to see a dubious flag for offside. In the final minute, Rob Jones was able to tip the Saracens effort over the bar, after foul from Josh Pugh. Lakeside we able to hold out and come away from the Folly with a credible 2-1 victory.
Man of the Match: Kurt Burrows
Bookings: Cameron Smith 45th minute, Cheltenham Saracens 55th minute and Josh Pugh 80th minute.
