The late start and attempt to take advantage of the rule book by Ely only served to enliven the home team in a close-fought (and I mean fought) game. Ely had most of the early pressure, but the masterful Mark Freer and his defensive colleagues stood firm and were able to get the ball away well to midfield or the wings without too many heart flutters. Keeper Jon Bartram frequently dived in early to prevent shots.

The opening goal came from a textbook short corner; from which Steve Fleck shot home from the edge of the D. South had few other chances although the forwards Kennedy and Chalk got into good positions and often troubled the Ely rearguard.

Ely were miffed, and turned their attention to some robust challenges, foolishly tangling with the calm Mark Freer and Ky Ho, and the far-too-quick-for-them Fleck and Lewis. One Ely player was dismissed by the authoritive umpires, who did well to keep control throughout. A second South goal came from the same route as the first, with Fleck slotting home from another Greaves short corner. Ely got one back after a momentary defensive lapse let in their star midfielder for a solo goal, but thereafter South held firm and ran out deserved winners.

Another good team performance with everyone playing their part, and keeping control of ball and tempers in trying circumstances, against a team who did the double over us last season. Well played one and all.