Monarchs win at home v Slough

After last week’s narrow, but deserved win over South Berks 4 the Monarchs lined up in optimistic mood against bottom of the table Slough.
The earlier fixture between the two sides had resulted in a narrow 3-4 defeat mainly due to the Monarchs season long tendency to let the opposition have at least a two goal start before trying to score themselves.
Unfortunately history looked like repeating itself when Slough took an early lead rather against the run of play. However, the Monarchs rallied quickly and equalised with a well executed goal. Rod picked up the ball on the wide right and hit a long pass to Tim, who crossed to Ash, who despite being the right hand midfielder was in the centre forward position, unleashing an unstoppable shot into the Slough goal.
Slough pressed hard to restore their lead. At one point Randy stopped playing and lifted his arm in the air – did he need the toilet, we asked? A voice from the sidelines enquired “I say old chap, you’re playing in this match you know, not umpiring”.
Monarchs were now winning most of the midfield battles and after a period of sustained pressure with some good saves from the Slough keeper and a few near misses, Clint struck the second.
Slough equalised from a penalty stroke after a hard hit penalty corner struck Wayne’s shin on the line.
The second half started evenly with some of the Slough young players showing their dribbling skills, but not actually making any chances.
Monarchs were playing well and it wasn’t long before skipper Viren finished off a fine penalty corner drill with a slick finish under the diving keeper. That is four goals in two matches since his girlfriend started watching us. Hope she comes every week from now on!
The Monarchs were now playing with real confidence and despite losing Joseph for a few minutes with a nose bleed after an accidental collision, extended the lead with Tim getting his customary goal.
Slough pressed hard, but could not breach the Monarchs defence with Wayne, Randy, Clint and Nick repelling all attacks.
Man of the match – this was a great team effort and for a change Connor had little to do. Wayne was man of the match. Thanks also to Marcus and Nav for umpiring well.

Match report: Rod Gauld
Man of the Match: Wayne Sims