This week the 6s travelled back to Gillingham, a side we had beaten 3 weeks previous in a preseason friendly, however the oppo lineup was vastly different this time around.
A slow start for Ash saw Gillingham pounce with 3 goals in the opening 20 mins, one of which was an audacious one handed strike which no one expected. After the 3rd went in, Tony took it upon himself to go for a classic Tony run, but this time playing a wonderball to the D for onrushing Gallagher (Ben, not Noel or Liam) who finished deliciously on the reverse from the right hand side of goal. HT, 1-3.
Half time analysis suggested our tackling needed to be stronger and we needed to get to 50/50s first. The second half showing was much better than the first, however a short corner blocked on the line by Connor's foot conceded a P flick. Callum unable to save a low driven shot made the score 4-1. Ever optimistic, Ash continued to give their all. Another great piece of play led to Tony drilling another ball into the D for Tom to finish majestically on the reverse into the side-netting, leading to Ben leaping for joy like Mario after a coin. 2-4, 20 to go. Game on. A change of shape to go 3 at back and throw everything at them for the last 10 ultimately failed as Ash found themselves unable to get out of their half with any kind of control. FT 4-2 but a much better second half performance.
MOTM goes to Tony for 2 brilliant assists. Old Bords up next at Dartford. Ash will be hoping for a result in that match.