Mens 1st XI drew with Eastcote 1 - 1

Maidenhead and Eastcote shared the points in a tightly fought 1-1 draw on Saturday. As their respective league positions suggest, this was always going to be a close match with momentum swinging between the teams through the game. The result means Maidenhead remain in third, one point behind their opposition, but with what could be a crucial game in hand.

Maidenhead avoided their customary slow start and held onto the ball well in the early stages. They managed to work the ball into good areas but were unable to provide the final touches to moves which were often thwarted in the final third. However, the possession was not turned over easily and Eastcote had to work hard for the ball.

Chances were difficult to create for both sides in the first half and the goal were only threatened a few times. The most dangerous moments for Maidenhead came when Eastcote worked the ball into the D and fired a quick shot at the keeper. The rebound was collected by the striker who attempted a quick reverse flick. James Bowler did well to dive to his right and make the save with his stick. Maidenhead were let off again as the save fell to a third Eastcote player, who’s effort hit the post and was finally cleared to safety.

Chris Adams had the best of Maidenhead’s first half efforts. He was released through on goal after some good build up play but the keeper came out quickly. The shot looked to be going over the keeper and in but the faintest of touches forced it to bounce inches wide. Seconds later Adams had another chance, this time taking it round the onrushing keeper only to have a tight angle with defenders back in the goal. The attempt flick was stopper en route to goal and the ball cleared to safety.

Maidenhead shifted formation in the second half and also adopted a half court press, allowing Eastcote more possession but, compacting the play in their own half. These tactics worked well as Eastcote found it difficult to break down the play and found themselves forcing passes which could be picked off.

The breakthrough came for Maidenhead when a short corner was won mid way through the second half. As he has so often this season, Paul Brown stepped up and delivered another fine strike from the top of the D which couldn’t be stopped by the keeper or defender on the post.

It was not long before the scores were level again however. Maidenhead’s resolute defence won the ball again and looked to launch another counter attack. However, in the push to get forward the ball was turned over cheaply and Eastcote found themselves with numbers to get forward. They quickly found a man in space in the D who’s shot just slipped in at the near post.

The game became more tense as it wore on but despite each team receiving yellow cards at different points, neither side could grab a winner when they had the numerical advantage. The game ended with both sides feeling they could have won it but a draw probably a fair result. Maidenhead face Staines at home on Saturday and will continue to push for a top two finish.