CITY OF SOUTHAMPTON YOUTH LEAGUE U/18 - Sunday 21 Oct 2007

Gurnard entertained Michelmersh & Timsbury and lost 5-3, two evenly-matched teams contributing to an excellent game. Gurnard edged the first half and were 2-1 ahead as they went into the second-half; their goals were scored by striker Jason Brett, who had another effort chalked off for offside. His second goal was created by a length-of-the –pitch run by midfielder Leigh Merrick. Mitch & Tims started the second-half in a more determined mood, launching attack after attack on Gurnards keeper, Tom Watson, who managed some fine saves but was unfortunate in conceding two goals that put the visitors ahead. Mich & Tims upped the pace as Gurnard began to tire and went further ahead. Jason Brett completed his hat-trick only for Mich & Tims to net an excellent fifth, and final, goal at the death. Gurnard’s Man of Match  was the hard-working Leigh Merrick. Gurnard’s Eileen Payani admits the team is finding Division 1 a bit hard, having moved up two divisions, but so far have enjoyed every match. AFC Hiltingbury caught they eye once again, stinging Warsash Waps 6-0. Dan Smith scored twice and Olly Hill the other, as Clarendon Juniors overcame Westwood 3-0.

Winchester Castle’s Division 2 visit to Alresford Town saw them gain a narrow 5-4 victory. That game apart, the rest of the games were low-scoring affairs, Hedge End claiming the performance of the week in inflicting a first defeat on Romsey Town. Romsey started brightly with Mitch Holmes causing problems down the right hand side, but their final ball was poor. Hedge End always looked a threat on the break, and deservedly took the lead when a fine shot rebounded off the bar and, while the Romsey defence watched on, a Hedge End striker reacted quickest to finish from close range. Romsey's midfield of Gareth Beddoes and Tom Munday battled well, but to no avail. The second half started much in same way with Romsey failing to make any impact and Hedge End’s confidence growing as the game went on. With Romsey pressing for the equaliser, Hedge End broke away to make it 2-0. Tadley Calleva made a long trip south, making it worthwhile with a 3-0 win at Hythe & Dibden. Sholing Athletic overcame Littleton Juniors A 2-0 and Itchen drew 2-2 with S&D A.

In a very competitively played Division 3 game, Bishops Waltham went ahead early in the first half with Oakley pulling level with a clinically struck goal from the penalty spot from captain, Matt Ward. The game was played at a high tempo and, with a terrific sporting attitude by both teams, was a pleasure to watch, Oakley scoring twice more to finish 3-1 winners. Bartley continued their bright start to the season with a 3-0 home win against Wyvern and Botley Village A had a narrow 3-2 victory over Hamble United. Not a single home win in Division 4; TC Woodman thumped Botley Village B 11-1, St Francis Youth just got the better of Hythe United to win 4-3, QK B won 3-1 at Littleton Juniors and Colden Common B beat Mich & Tims B 2-1.