Cambridge South 3rds, sponsored by PwC, dominated the initial stages of the game against a young and skilful March team, with sensible passing hockey and good use of the width. Attacks came from all areas, with George Wych at right back, and MoM Rich Bowman setting up many of the best moves, with the sprightly Tim Waller frequently involved at the sharp end. Although there were many shooting chances, including a disallowed John Greaves effort, none were converted, mainly due to the excellent March keeper, and the half remained goalless. Greaves also managed a spectacular rolling double twist fall as he collided with the keeper.

March grabbed the lead mid way through the second half after a period when they had gained the upper hand, as CSouth couldn’t keep the ball away from their midfield playmaker, and home players started to dwell on the ball too long. The goal only served to reinvigorate CSouth who got back into the groove, and produced a flood of chances, one saved miraculously by a defended on the line, and the woodwork denying others. Paul South, John Greaves and Andy Lewis were all unlucky.

Finally Suk Pannu bundled the ball into the net from close range after the tireless newcomer Rupert Epsley dribbled into the D and the defence were unable to clear the danger. CSouth could have gone on to gain the victory their superior hockey and commitment deserved with more chances late on...again hitting the post and keeping the goalkeeper fully occupied.

The game showed that CSouth 3rds are well matched against the better sides in this league, but we have to keep brains engaged, keep playing good hockey for 70 minutes...and take our chances.