Sadly a defeat against Oxford - Maidenhead Advertiser

Maidenhead Men’s 1st team failed to claim any bragging rights against their old foes Oxford OBU after falling to a 3-2 defeat in their second match of the Premier Division 2 West at the weekend.

The clubs were promoted into the division together, advancing from the MBBO Regional Division 1 last season but, while Oxford have enjoyed a fine start to their season, securing back-to-back wins, Maidenhead haven’t been able to emulate such success.

An opening day defeat to Richmond 2nds and a narrow loss to Oxford on Saturday has put Maidenhead amongst five other teams yet to register a point in the league. Maids player David Tyler believes a lack of composure is costing his side opportunities to mark a result.

“I think we just need to be a bit more ruthless in the circle with outcomes, whether that’s getting shots off or winning short corners,” he said.

“There were a few stray passes [against Oxford] and we’re failing to make that final pass in the circle to put someone in for a goal.

“We just need to be a bit more clinical.”

Despite sitting third from bottom, Tyler insists that the squad’s morale remains high and that they will look to correct their mistakes in training.

“I don’t think it’s time to panic,” he added.

“We’re going to train hard and work on our counter attack breaks, attacking in the circle, and ultimately trying to find outcomes.

“The squad is positive and working hard and everyone is putting an incredible amount of effort into these games.

“We’re just not getting the rub of the green at the moment but every game right now is an opportunity and you’ve got to take your chances to come away with any points.”