Mens 1st XI lost to Chiswick 1st XI 0 - 2

Maidenhead fell to a 2-0 defeat away to league leaders Chiswick. The loss means Chiswick are now 8 points clear of second place Eastcote and 9 points of clear of Maidenhead, who still have a game in hand. The loss effectively ends Maidenhead’s push to win the league but second place, which still offers the hope of promotion, is well within reach after the teams either side of Maidenhead in the table both lost.

The importance of the game was not lost on the Maidenhead players who went in full of confidence and ready to beat the league leaders, having already defeated them at their ground in the cup earlier in the season. The away side started brightly and created a few chances in the opening minutes. Dan Bradley sent Steve Roe through on goal but he was unable to finish from a tight angle.

Maidenhead created a few more chances, but the play evened out as the half continued. It was clear that the match would come down to a few decisive moments, separating two top teams playing quality hockey. Chiswick struck towards the end of the second half. Having won a short corner a well worked deflected goal was created, bypassing the Maidenhead keeper who could not cut out the shot.

Chiswick managed to create the same opportunity within ten minutes, winning another short which was converted via a low drag flick into the bottom corner of the goal. As has so often been the case this season Maidenhead responded well and continued to play good hockey. The ball was moved well and the team kept possession, however, the decision making in the final third was lacking.

This play continued into the second half in which Maidenhead, again had the better of the chances. Dan Bradley missed a drag flick by a few inches and also had a shot heading for the top corner kept out by the Chiswick keeper. Chiswick were forced to defend more as Maidenhead pressed for a goal in the final minutes of the game. However, they were unable to come up with the any further clear-cut opportunities and lost a close encounter 2-0.
Despite the loss Maidenhead’s performance was good and they will take that into the final stages of the season. Still pushing for promotion into the South Premier – Division 2