Crunch clash

Marlborough vs Chippenham Marlborough lose 2-0
After a thrilling last gasp draw the previous week Marlborough welcomed high flyers Chippenham for a crunch clash near the top of the table. There was some doubt whether the game would be able to go ahead after some low temperatures the night before which had left the pitch needing a good thaw in places. Thankfully Marlborough goalkeeper Brian Marnane was switched on and after a couple of trips to the nearest warm tap to fill the water bottles the pitch was well on the way to being playable.
The game began in an excited manner with both teams trying to play at a high tempo in the difficult conditions. Passes were regularly misplaced as both defences set up with the intention of curbing any attacking threat that the opposition possessed. Chippenham then took the initiative in the game with some quick passing through the midfield and several long aerial passes being thrown in to gaps around the Marlborough defence.
Their pressure was rewarded when they slotted home a short corner routine to open the scoring. Stung in to a reaction Marlborough pressed forward and soon had several chances of their own after good work in and around the Chippenham ‘d’. Sadly for the home side they were not able to convert any of these and a short corner attack ended in disappointment to round out the first half.
Knowing that losing was simply not an option Marlborough started the second half brightly and played some fluid, fast hockey down both flanks which led to space being created near the Chippenham goal. Chippenham realising their predicament settled in for some hardworking defending which they performed admirably. When the ball was turned over the visitors attacked with pace and purpose leading to goalkeeper Brian Marnane being called upon for several sharp saves. Once again the pressure told and midway through the second half doubled their lead after an attacking overload allowed a free shot which was buried.
2-0 down and running out of time Marlborough continued to play with high energy but without any luck required to make a dent in the scoreline. Several more chances went begging with the post being hit and several acrobatic saves from the Chippenham goalkeeper.
The game finished 2-0 with a delighted Chippenham deservedly taking the three points and putting some distance between themselves and Marlborough.
The Marlborough News Online man of the match was Marlborough goalkeeper Brian Marnane for numerous excellent reflex saves.