The 1sts opening friendly of the season was against Bishops Stortford 1s. A team we have historically been pretty balanced against, and finished fairly high in the league after a fragmented season last year.

Unfortunately with a slim 13 man squad (Lacking Herb due to moving house, spond issues or other unknown reason) we knew the match would be tough, but hoped a solid amount of pre season fitness could offset any fatigue and carry us through.

South started well, opening up the play early with some strong attacking moves into the circle Peter, James, Jack and Browne were working well together at the top and converted for an early goal. A reverse cross from Bailey was collected and slotted into the goal by Jack. 

The press was working exceptionally well, being able to contain the typical long ball play stortford adopt from the back and nullifing any aerials sent into the middle of the park. Connor on the right was collecting and mopping up any attacks sent at him and earnt himself MoM for a great debut. Mark in the middle, another new face, was distributing well and certainly earned his prized Highfield courgette. 

Stortford managed to level the score though with a well finished rebound from a short corner, volleyed past Darren. South continued to push though with the midline working tremendously with the forwards to build up play. Ed, Harry and Sam were moving the ball around and creating opportunities for the forwards. Browne eventually converted from a promising attack into the circle. The ball was deflected high towards the back post, where Browne put it away on the second attempt. 

2-1 into the break and the balance of play looked promising. The next quarter continued this pressure from south, Rosselli and Scott were pinging balls for the forwards into the corners and South were building up well into the circle. Unfortunately unable to convert these chances early meant Stu and Darren were having to deal with more attacks as south pushed high. 

Unfortunately, the strong press started to slip with fatigue and probing attacks from Stortford, the structure started to fail, and a few quick counter attacks resulted in some fast overloads into our circle and a brace of goals for stortford. 

Finally a well placed drag flick secured the 4-2 win for stortford. Perhaps against the general run of play, but many positives to look at going into the season. 

Connor received Man of the Match for some solid play on his debut. Herb added another Lemon for being MiA.