Round 2: A Perfect Day! WCWFL 60s 2025
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| Steve G, Chris W, John K, Paul W, Graham N, Pete C. Mark K (c), Dave H. |
Having started the day in 2nd place in the WCWFL 60s, we had high hopes of maintaining that position, and with a few changes to the squad from match day one, it took a little time to settle.
We started off with Highworth. Although we dominated possession and created a number chances Highworth proved difficult to break down. Also with a number of players not having played together before we were a little disjointed. However, two well taken goals from Mark settled us and, in all honesty, John had little to do in goal.
Then the crunch game against Swindon. It was a tight game with some pride at steak and although Swindon had most of the possession the team structure meant few chances were created and most of those fell to Swindon, but with Steve at the back and John in goal we were always in the game, albeit on the breakaway. And that is what happened when Dave slipped a pass through to Chris leaving him to chip the keeper in a one-on-one. After that it was backs to the wall, but we kept our shape to hold onto a vital win.
Melksham next, and again a fairly even game with chances shared. Having played Swindon in the previous game the intensity had dropped a bit, but two slick moves from the back led to goals from Paul and Dave. Paul had a chance to make it 3 v 0 but narrowly missed. We were also on three 'not walking' offences so we did drop back and slow down which allowed Melksham a bit more freedom, which ultimately led to their goal, but we held on for our third win of the day.
Next up Devizes, the draw specialists! Again an even contest with Devizes probably creating more chances, and again our keeper was on top form. However when a Devizes defender stepped into their area there was little doubt that Mark would put away the resulting penalty.
Finally, a much improved Salisbury team. At times it seemed to be Calne v The Goalkeeper who it has to be said was outstanding, making saves and double saves from the barrage of shots raining in from multiple Calne players. It looked like like they may hold out for a draw, but in the end a solo effort from Mark saw us over the line.
That made it 5/5 and the full 15 points.
Highworth 0 v 1 Calne
Swindon 0 v 1 Calne
Melksham 1 v 2 Calne
Devizes 0 v 1 Calne
Salisbury 0 v 1 Calne
Thanks to the players, all making invaluable contributions, the effort and teamwork was clear to see - with particular thanks to Mark as Captain. And to the record number of Calne supporters (3!) who joined us, giving us an extra boost from the sidelines - our 7th man!
On to the next round and the prospect of maintaining our lead at the top, although it will get tougher each matchday.
All Men 60s results (and Women & Men 50s) can be seen here on the WCWFL website.
Contributors: Chris W & Nic C
