Match Report

Leigh were currently placed in 3rd position in the league and had come away from games with impressive scores. They were definitely aiming high against the Canvey boys and started the game on a high. The game began pretty even with both teams gunning for the early goal. Unfortunately it came from Leigh after a strong shot was saved by Jack Sims but just managed to cross the line.

Canvey are experienced at being behind in a game so this didn't faze the boys. Levi Causton was back up front and carried out some impressive ball skills as he pushed forward. Jordan Bloss started out at centre midfield and continued with his strong tackles and accurate passing. Archie Blackburn and Finlay Dobson worked the ball forward and put pressure on the Leigh defence. The ball was knocked around the goal area and after several deflections, Levi managed to put the ball in the back of the net. Leigh fought back hard and quickly closed down our passing. Harry Neal and Jared Blake were kept on their toes in defence as Leigh strived forward. Jack was strong in goal, directing his defence and picking up any loose balls with ease and saving a couple of decent shots.

I'm still not sure where their next goal came from but once again we were a goal behind. With half time approaching, Finlay used his speed on the left to cross the ball over to Levi who took a shot. The goalkeeper managed to stop it but couldn't hold onto the ball. Jordan saw his chance and followed up, knocking the ball in the corner of
the net.

Half time saw the score at 2-2. The Canvey team was slightly re-arranged with Archie in the middle and Jordan on the right. Leigh once again came out strong and Finlay cleared a great shot off the line. Canvey made a break with impressive passing between Archie, Jordan and Levi. Leigh defence were solid and cleared the ball. Jared pushed up from defence to midfield and took his chance for a run. He made a great pass down the middle to Levi who put in Canvey's 3rd goal.

Whilst Canvey were still in celebration mode, Leigh saw their chance and pushed through and scored a minute later. The team were re-arranged again to push Finlay up front with Levi and move Jared into mid-field. Harry Neal, now on his own in defence, was once again reliable and solid with both tackles and clearances. Jack dominated his area and his shouts could be heard from Hadleigh Castle! Time was now running out and Canvey wouldn't be happy with a draw.

The boys, fighting against the bitterly cold weather, put their hearts and souls into the last 5 minutes. A last surge saw our boys pounding the Leigh defence until Finlay used great ball control to slide his way past the defence and net our winner. The whistle blew a minute later giving us the win we deserved. Leigh put up a great fight and were always a worry but Canvey proved why they are still top of the league. On top of that we were also missing captain James Harrison, a crucial member of the team. Finlay Dobson was given player of the match. Well deserved, for his skill and speed but also great defensive play when needed.