Mens 4th XI Vs Woking 5's

Purley came to this match fresh off their first league win of the season, a 3-0 victory away at Goan and both sides were level on points in the league, with one win, a draw and two losses to their names. Woking had scored an impressive 13 times in their first 4 matches and so it was clearly going to be a close match affair. The weather was unexpectedly mild for the start of November and there was no doubt that both sides were up for the match, Woking preparing themselves with much clashing of sticks. Purley adopting a more relaxed but equally focused approach.

Woking came out with all guns blazing and Purley were hard pressed for the first few minutes of play. Porter again proving his worth between the uprights. Early pressure weathered, Purley started to play the ball around the midfield. Tom Alexander showed great positioning in the channels and was able to lay the ball off to Nowlan-Dias with some impunity. It was an early sign of things to come with Woking exposed at the back time and time again to the tune of three goals for Purley in the first half. The night started to draw in, the floddlights came on (eventually) and Purley three up at the half but with no feelings of complacency allowed to creep in.

The second half started much as the first, with Woking putting their all into attack. This time their intent was rewarded with an early goal. Howvere as the half wore on, Woking's determination to attack and a few tiring legs gave plenty of space to the Purley attackers (and one over enthusiatic left half) and by the time the dust settled and the whistle was blown Purley had netted 7 to Woking's 3. It was a terrific match played in the exact spirit which makes me glad of my decision to get back into sport after a long absence.

Purley had moved up the table. now 6th in SOHL Division 2. just a handful points off the top 3. Roll on next week end away match at Reigate

Simon Howers

Chief Sports Correspondent