The 4s produced one of their largest match day squads for an opening pre-season game in recent years when they managed to assemble a squad of 11 plus four substitutes. With new starters Andy T and Sam R introduced and the warm welcome extended to 'El Presidente' Greaves, Ian E and Wilco joining us for the new season the 4s took the field full of confidence and it showed through the opening stages. Slick passing moves allowed us to make good use of Sam and Nathan's pace on the wings and with tenacious tackling from Wilco and last years Player of the Season Simon Frampton filling in in midfield the game was if not firmly, then fairly under our control.

One such foray forward saw the midfield swapping passes before unleashing Sam down the right flank and after taking on the opposition left back, cut inside the D and unleashed a rocket of a shot across the keeper and into the far corner. 1-0 South! With the rolling substitutions working well and several more well struck shots testing the opposition keepers luck more than his judgement, it started to look like Shahbaz in the 4s goal was going to be well rested before his afternoon game with the 2s.

Then came the tactical manouever that changed the course of the game. Such a pity it came from Stortford's captain rather than yours truly. Pushing their guest player forward from defence to midfield, she (yes, that's not a typo, she) began to boss the game and leave the midfield chasing shadows for much of the rest of the game. Combined with some fast and skilful wingplay, the pressure soon told and the equaliser duy arrived. However, South weren't to roll over and just before half time, the Monckasaurus dispatched one of his customary cross field balls out to the right which the Monckaraptor swiftly latched onto, driving for the baseline and cutting a ball back that only the timely intervention of the Stortford sweeper prevented from reaching Boris and James lurking in the D.

The second half came and started much as the first half ended and South found themselves behind for the first time. Despite renewed pressure, typified by the constant running on the flanks from Sam and Nathan (ablely assisted by Owen and Boris) looking to help set up attacks, South managed to force several short corners, but were unable to dispatch any. However, getting to grips with Stortford's midfield and repelling the attacks that came through, the defence stood firm to keep the game tight and several good stops from Shahbaz prevented them from adding to their score.

In in all, a good start (despite the result) showing a lot of promise for the season. If the availability is kept up and with our natural midfield players yet to return, this could be a good season ahead.