Mens 1st XI lost to Chiswick Mens 1s 1 - 2
Maidenhead slipped to third in the MBBO league after suffering a 2-1 defeat at home to league-leaders Chiswick. This was their first defeat of the season and, with Eastcote recording another win, means they are 3 points from the top, and a point behind second place.
The top of the table clash was always going to be a tough test but, with home advantage and the confidence of a win over the same side in the cup competition a few weeks earlier, Maidenhead were aiming for the full 3 points. However, their early determination was quickly undermined by another poor start, fast becoming a trend for the team.
A brief, promising opening spell was followed by uncertainty and sloppy play. Maidenhead opened reasonably comfortably but soon Chiswick were in the ascendance and began to create chances. However., it was an error at the back that cost Maidenhead. A transferred ball around the defence was pressured by Chiswick and Carl Ferrand eventually turned the ball over in the 25, Chiswick took advantage as the ball was slipped back into the D where the striker finished.
The next goal soon followed. Chiswick progressed down the middle of the pitch without much resistance from the Maidenhead team. Each player seemed to be drawn to the ball as it was shifted on and the quick passing move was finished off by a first time shot which went under the advancing James Bowler in goal.
Maidenhead seemed to be holding on for the rest of the half. A few attacks were produced and a few short corners won. However, the execution of these was not to the standard that has been produced so far this season and the two main threats both failed to score. They managed to hold off Chiswick to the half time whistle and re-grouped, aiming for a vastly improved performance which would demonstrate why the two teams were actually level in the league.
The second half was much better and Maidenhead began to dictate some of the play. The sides were more even and Chiswick often resorted to clearing the ball from the defence straight off the pitch to relieve some of the pressure. They created some counter attacking chances but Maidenhead continued to press for goals. One eventually came as Dan Bradley took some defenders on and found himself at the top of the D with some space. His quick shot surprised the Chiswick keeper and beat him at his near post.
Although the performance had been lifted, Chiswick held on for a deserved win and go top of the league, without a defeat so far this season. Maidenhead will look to bounce back with a win against BA this weekend.