Braishfield return to winning ways with comfortable win against rivals

After several weeks lay-off Braishfield returned to action with a comfortable victory against their local rivals.

A large crowd was attracted to the Rec for the first competitive meeting between these two near neighbour’s 1st teams for many years. On a heavy surface, Braishfield had the better of the first half and forced several good saves from the 'Marsh goalkeeper before they finally broke the deadlock when player-manager Dan Edwards forced home a corner from close range. The second half saw the visitors hit back strongly, with their pacy wingers posing a threat on the break. Braishfield defended well and gave little away as they gradually regained control. Returnee striker Jacob Phirachi went close several times before bagging a brace to secure a deserved 3-0 victory.

Meanwhile, it was a day to forget for Braishfield Reserves who crashed out of the Supplementary Trophy after being well beaten 1-7 by higher division Wickham Dynamoes.

This was always going to be a difficult task, and their cause was not helped when two late withdrawals forced manager Tom Sturgess and secretary Lee Whitelock to both play the entire 90 minutes. Wickham were two up within 15 minutes, but to their credit, Braishfield fought back well and after some good play reduced the deficit when Mitch Down scored with a well-taken effort. However, any hopes of a revival were soon ended when the hosts scored a third goal after a spectacular free kick.

Wickham (whose side contained a number of experienced former Durley players) dominated the second half. Braishfield were forced to defend in numbers for long periods but despite their best efforts the hosts showed no mercy and scored a further four goals to run out easy 1-7 winners. In a good-natured game, Braishfield could at least take some heart from their efforts in what were difficult circumstances. Several players performed well, especially goalkeeper Alfie Strickland who pulled off a series of fine saves, including a penalty.

Tomorrow afternoon the 1st team make the short trip to Knightwood Leisure Centre to play St Francis, whilst the 2nd team are home to Comrades Reserves. Both games kick off at 2:30pm.