The Vets March On In Runwick Cup Victory

Barry Parker • 20 October 2024

HEADLEY BATTLE IN TOUGH CONDITIONS TO ADVANCE IN THE RUNWICK CUP

Match Report:


Headley Veterans 4-3 Cranleigh Veterans (Runwick Cup)


Location: Headley Sports Ground, Mill Lane, Headley Hampshire

Date: Sunday 20th October 2024

Kick-off: 10:30am


Headley Veterans delivered a stellar performance to edge out Cranleigh Veterans in a 4-3 thriller in the Runwick Cup. Despite missing six key players, including McGarry, Richards, Murphy, Wood, Gordon, Graham, Wilson and Churcher due to suspension, Headley showed incredible heart and determination to overcome high level opponents from a higher division.


With horrendous weather conditions that could have seen the game called off and a tough opposition who arrived with a full squad of 16, Headley demonstrated their quality and teamwork throughout the 90 minutes. Cranleigh, who are strong contenders in their division and had only lost once this season, were outclassed by Headley's tactical discipline and pure hunger for victory.


First Half:


Headley started brightly, putting Cranleigh under pressure from the whistle. The breakthrough came in the 21st minute when Barry Parker flicked on a pinpoint cross from Nick Oram-Tooley (OT) to give Headley the lead. Fifield's size and positioning, applied pressure on the retreating defenders who deflected the smart on target flick from Parker into his own net - Parker claimed the goal.


Cranleigh hit back almost immediately, equalizing in the 25th minute with a wind-assisted long ball that led to a scrappy goal. It was tough for all players, but both goalkeepers did well to cope in the stormy conditions.


Headley regained their composure quickly and struck again in the 28th minute. Melinte, showing his incredible vision and technique, lobbed the Cranleigh goalkeeper from 30 yards after receiving a perfectly weighted through ball from Buttery. It was a moment of brilliance that put Headley back in front at 2-1.


Disaster struck for Headley shortly after when Parker, attempting to clear a cross, inadvertently sent a header into the very top corner of his own net from 15 yards, giving the flying James Small no chance, leveling the game at 2-2.


Cranleigh capitalised on the momentum and took the lead just before halftime when another wind-assisted cross slipped through Tiger's hands in the treacherous conditions, giving them a 3-2 advantage go into half time.



Second Half:


Despite trailing, Headley came out in the second half with renewed energy and determination. In the 50th minute, the revitalised Travis Martin was brought down inside the box after some tricky wing play, earning a penalty for Headley. Parker confidently stepped up and blasted the ball home, giving the Cranleigh keeper no chance - to bring the game level at 3-3.


Headley’s fighting spirit was on full display, and in the 67th minute, Parker again delivered. Winning a crucial header after battling past two defenders, Parker launched a long-range strike from 35 yards that soared into the back of the net, putting Headley 4-3 ahead. The energy was infectious and that underlined an influence on the game for the home team.


As Cranleigh pushed for an equalizer, Headley’s defense stood firm. Ionut was immense at the back, making several crucial blocks to keep Cranleigh at bay. The midfield, led by tireless efforts of Paul Oliver and Jason Liddle in the No. 6, battled hard and won most of the 50/50 challenges, helping to maintain Headley’s shape and balance.


Dan Sleater threw his 6ft4 frame into action as he blocked two last minute shots that could have easily switched the game. A late entry from veteran-veteran Stephen White showed his class, but his boots did not stay white with pitch conditions making it hard for everyone involved.


The relentless OT, battling a cold, took a few hits for the team in some tough challenges - his distribution and creativity provided superb link play with the wiry and skillful Melinte who was close not to double his tally late on.


Larry, always working tirelessly to support the squad, played a key role in pressing the Cranleigh backline, ensuring they had little time on the ball. His work rate alongside Grant Stapleton, who had the game of his life were essential in helping Headley control the game’s tempo.


Buttery started to feel it late in the game after putting in another shift at left back. Consistency was key, with Bachetta who shared the opposite right back position showing why that have been vital in the teams early season success.


A hearty performance from the entire squad who wanted in more than the visitors. A late long-distance throw-in effort from Parker which went zero point one yards earned him not only a hat-trick but also the football kit to wash in prep for next weekend's league fixture against East Meon.



Post-Match Comments:


Barry Parker (Manager):


''The Lads were absolutely phenomenal today. Heart, determination, and exceptional teamwork shone through. Our strength as a unit was evident, and it felt powerful on the pitch. Cranleigh are a capable Division 3 title contender with a squad of 16, yet we made them seem average at best. Each player contributed today, and our resilience and spirit carried us through despite the challenging conditions.


Special mentions go to OT for that stunning cross for the first goal, Jason Liddle for a brilliant performance as a No. 6—your influence truly helped us dominate the midfield—and Larry, whose relentless pressing consistently troubled their defense. This victory showcases what we can accomplish when we unite as a team. I’m incredibly proud of each and every one of you. Let’s carry this momentum into the next match.''


Chris Brown (Manager):


''I truly believe we fully earned that victory. The lads were absolutely outstanding today. Our defense was exceptional, we created numerous chances, and we displayed remarkable character in challenging conditions. Cranleigh's first goal was aided by the wind, their second came from a superb own goal by Barry Parker, and their third was a result of a slip in difficult weather. However, we fought back, and Tiger made several crucial saves in the second half to help secure the win.''


'We are extremely proud of the discipline and determination everyone exhibited today. The defense was well-organised, the midfield dominated nearly every 50/50 ball, and the front three caused trouble throughout the match. Each and every player rose to the occasion. Ionut deserves a special mention for his crucial blocks at the back, and the substitutes—Sleater, Liddle, and White—made a significant impact upon their arrival. Great job, lads!


Full Time: 4-3 to Headley Veterans


The win moves Headley forward in the Runwick Cup with a statement performance that proves their ability to compete with higher-league teams. Headley Veterans will take great confidence from this victory as they continue their cup journey.

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