Eh Oh...

Another week, a different challenge and more lessons learned. In 4 friendlies, we have deliberately played against a variety of opposition to shake up and slim down the Gaffer's think Twice at home, Twice away.

Twice vs 45s Teams, Twice against 35s.

We have played in searing sunshine and pouring rain.

We have retained much of last year's squad and added in further quality.

Grass and Astroturf have been played on, but we were undone on a number of fronts yesterday, not least by a pitch that (being polite) was not conducive to our preferred passing game, even without the likes of Lux, Splinters, Too Tall Tel, Ev and Sonic. The occasional pitch at Hatfield Heath for the away game against Broad Oak 35s was akin to Teletubbie Land with significant undulations and sporadic swathes of sedge.

Welcoming Dean Yeowell and Darren Bruton on their continuing path back from injuries, we played last season's centreback pairing of Steptoe and Mouldy as auxiliary supporting cast to Holly. We struggled to get to grips with the conditions in the early stages and our offside trap was beaten, allowing the hosts too much time to slot home past debutante keeper Woodsy Brutey was forced off shortly after as a precaution and Fraser made a surprise appearance as he got a pass from Mrs Higgs to come and play. Shortly thereafter tempo was picked up and chances started to come our way. Fraser hit the bar from a freekick and missed a chance at the back post, Holly produced a fine save from the Keeper and Steptoe lobbed lusciously from 20 yards, only to see his effort bounce on the goal line and then over the bar - at the CM6 Carpet it would have gone in. Parity was restored after 5Cents and Holly pressure and persistence paid off as an own goal made it 1-1. It did not last long when The Acorns' right winger scored just before half-time with a fine curling effort. Changes were made in the second half, with injury, hangover and tired legs combined with more vital minutes for everybody led to a disjointed display further hampered by the wind. Chances were few and far between and the prolific Holly getting minimal service.

A slip from John Deamer led to the third and final goal, as well as a sharp word to the local groundsman... also called John Deamer. Next week we are back at White Roding against 45s opposition in the shape of Bishop Stortford. Again we lose a couple of individuals with other commitments but welcome back several others in what will be a truer test of our ambitions. All concerned (the Gaffer included) have to make amends for yesterday's display with better decision making, greater composure and a focus on improving in all areas. Line Up included: La La Dipsy Tinky Winky Po