Horndean endured their heaviest defeat for some time as they were well beaten by last seasons treble winners in a game that was more or less over in 10 minutes. Horndean started unusually nervous and in a ten minute period which was full of errors, gave the initiative to Meon milton who strode into a two goal lead. Poor & nervous passing in the defensive third gave the ball away cheaply, resulting in Meons captain Hitting a long range drive into the top corner for 1-0. A bad start in a game where every player needed to play at their peak soon went from bad to worse as a terrible back pass was too heavy and inaccurate as the ball drifted past Kai Morgan. An own goal and Horndean were 2 down and looking vulnerable. The day went from bad to worse as 2 more injuries adding to the all ready growing list, as Brad Jones & Connor Shelton limped out of the action. To be fair to the players, despite the game looking all ready lost and a really make shift looking team, they kept trying to play without really threatening the Meon goal. H-T Meon 2 - 0 Horndean At half time, we really had to shuffle things to keep some kind of shape. With only one recognized center back, the team were forced to go with a back 3 and push Alfie Walkey up front who has no real experience. The second half began and surprisingly most of the play was in the Meon half. Horndean looked to pass the ball and did to a certain extent but without any penetration. In terms of general play, the game was even, but it was always Meon that looked most likely to score. With Horndean looking to push on a get something, gaps appeared defensively and Meon took advantage scoring 4 goals in the final 15 minutes. Full time Meon Milton 6 - 0 Horndean youth Managers view. Well beaten on the day and you have to accept Meon are a very good side with one or two key players that can make all the difference particularly in the final 3rd. Really disappointed with the start as we looked intimidated and this is something i thought we had moved on from. To be honest, the first 10-15 minutes was the worst ive seen from us. I would have to say tho, that in this type of game against this type of opposition you need all your best players on top form, but the simple fact is our injury list is ridiculous at present. Scott Caws & Joe Cooper were back from long lay offs, but no where near 100% as they try to get over their bad injuries. During the week we lost both Jack Grover & Jay Garcia and on the day, Brad Jones & Connor Shelton as well as Ollie Farr struggling with a calf problem. To add to this Joe Cooper is now out for a further 6 weeks as hiss collar bone has not healed. Nightmare really... Player of the match for me was Max Wilson. Ben Lucas ran him close, but Max`s determination, desire and work ethic was incredible. A captains example for sure !!! Lets hope we have enough fit players next week as we take on Moneyfields at home !!
