Oxshott Royals and Brockham Badgers Cup Clash
Oxhsott Royals are flying high in Division Two of the Epsom and Ewell League whilst Brockham Badgers currently hold the top spot in Division Three so this cup clash had the potential for a surprise or two.
Brockham fielded a defensive formation to contain their Oxshott and break quickly on the counter attack. Before Brockham could settle into this new formation, two quick goals from a penalty box scuffle and a long range strike saw Oxhsott take a 2-0 lead in the first five minutes.
Brockham regained their composure and started to find their form playing some trademark passing play with strong counter attacking down both wings. Ben MacKenzie, Lily Turner and Arun Watkins combined to test the Oxhsott keeper through the majority of the first half. With two minutes left on the clock Brockham conceded a foul just outside the penalty area, Brockham's wall of Tom Ambrose and Bailey Osbourne stood strong but a well taken strike saw Oxshott find the net and lead 3-0 at half time.
Brockham started the second half pushing hard to close the gap with Callum Holder forcing a couple of early saves from the Oxshott keeper. An Oxshott counter attack saw brave save from keeper Josh Snow as he dived to smother the ball to deny Oxshott a tap-in. Oxshott countered and against the run of play placed a cross into the box which was guided past the Brockham defence to put Oxshott 4-0 in front.
Brockham continued to press and although the hope of a draw was starting to fade, Brockham continued to press and create a series of clear chances forcing some fine saves from the Oxshott keeper. With five minutes left, a well-timed link up between Watkins and Turner saw a pass to Holder splitting the Oxshott defence enabling him to get a late goal.
The final whistle came with a score at 4 – 1 leaving Brockham to concentrate on consolidating their position at the top of the league.
Man of the Match: Ben MacKenzie
Brockham Badgers: Thomas Ambrose, Ben Austin, William Glenn, Callum Holder, Bailey Osborne (Capt.), Josh Snow, Ben MacKenzie, Lily Turner, Arun Watkins
Match Reporter: David Ambrose
