M2's Win At Home

Kettering M2s opened their preseason friendly campaign at home against what was expected to be a strong Saints 4th team. Prior to pushback we found out that Saints 4s are also Daventry 1's, but this did nothing if not make the expectations of a strong opposition even higher.

Straight from the push back Kettering found themselves under huge3 pressure, and only some really strong defending and a few loose balls from the opposition kept the score level. After a tough opening 15minutes, Kettering started to find their feet, and the game became a much more evenly contested affair. As Kettering grew into the game, the passing speed increased and Kettering found themselves on the front foot.

Two very well worked goals came from George York, and young Ethan Smart making his debut for the 2nd team already! Unfortunately a 2-0 lead seemed to make the game appear too easy, and some very slack play allowed Saints to score two of their own to get back in the game. 2-2 at halftime!

The second half started exactly as Kettering would want, and for the bulk of the second half Kettering had the better of the play, although Saints had more than their share of chances as well. Once more, it was strong defensive work to keep Saints out. The only blight in the game came midway through the second half, when after a trip by one Saints player caused Jason Clarke to go down, in the process of which his stick lifted towards another Saints player. After some words were exchanged and some empty threats made, both players were given yellow cards and asked to go and calm down.

Another brace from George York during the 2nd half gave him his first hat-trick of the season, and Jason Clarke made up for his previous altercation by hitting a peach of an effort from near the top of the 'D' to round off a fine display by all. Saints did manage another of their own to make the final score 5-3 to Kettering.

It was a great effort by all, but special mention must be made to Ethan Smart and to Ben York, both playing 'up' from the third team. Both players acquitted themselves fantastically, and have already staked their claim to be first in line to move up through the club ranks!