3s fall to Oundle 1st XI in JLC
3s had the first round of the jlc against a collection of Oundles best, a side who were calm on the ball and moved it around with ease.
First match back after the break and Harrow were a little rusty. Oundle opened the scoring but Alec Fogarty who had his best game of the season at left back replied in style. Taking the free kick 10 yards in from the half way line, everyone was expecting Foggy to cross the ball in. instead, spotting the keeper was way off his line, he floated the ball in diligently to make it 1-1. Next harrow was very unlucky to be given a penalty against them off a Theo Gordon hand ball which left Captain Khan fuming at the ref. Another goal for Oundle came in quick succession making it 3-1 but fought harrow back. this time from striker Dave Howells who making his seasonal debut for the 3s, volleyed the ball in just on the 6 yard box with ease. The boost of confidence was especially felt by Ben 'kezza' Kerry who from outside the box struck the ball brilliantly and catching a slight deflection scored his first goal for the OHAFC. At half time it was 3-3 and the team knew there was much left to do. Harrow picked the tempo up and the passing improved drastically. Ludo Callander at right back easily had his best game of the season and looked much improved. Jor-el Bajwa also fought hard for 90mins at centre back. Harrow spent plenty of time in the opposition half but couldn't perform in the final third. 60 mins in and Oundle made it 4-3. The turning point in the match came when Fogarty, 10 yards out from the goal could have equalised but unfortunately put the ball over. Oundle were able to get another goal and as Harrow heads dropped, the opposition piled them on. Interesting to note that at least four Oundle goals came on the counter attack from Harrow corners.
The scoreline doesn't reflect the determination harrow showed whilst playing without a competent keeper against a 1s side. The team spirit remains strong.
Well played to Alec Fogarty who wins man of the match.
Team lineup can be viewed here