Seasiders back to winning ways

Weston-super-Mare 10

Bradford-on-Avon 9

WESTON got back to winning ways with a nail-biter against bitter rivals Bradford-on-Avon.

The home side got off to a flyer with Vincent setting up L Coles within the first few seconds. He was fouled and S Coles converted the penalty. The visitors then started to dominate possession but Weston's defence was solid and they found it very hard to break down. The first quarter ended 2-1 in favour of the visiting team.

The second quarter was difficult for Weston as Morgan was excluded for a girly slap, this meant Weston had to play for the rest of the quarter a man down, but rallied together and worked hard to limit the extra space Bradford had. S Coles got a goal for Weston but Bradford scored four in this quarter to take the lead 6-2..

At half time coach Mike Coles and captain Matt Vincent had some inspirational words for the team and they came out for the third quarter ready to take the game to the visiting side. Vincent started to show his experience and was leading the team from the front with some strong pit play, Etchells and Rhian were almost impenetrable in defence and the Coles brothers along with Edwards and Maloney were all over the pool. This section Weston scored three goals to Bradford's one. Weston's goals came from Maloney, L Coles and S Coles. The score was now 7-5.

The last quarter Weston's superior fitness started to show and they were able to score four goals through Etchells, S Coles and a surprising strong shot by veteran Simon Farrence who is known for his lobbing.

Bradford replied by scoring two goals to take the game to 9-9 with one minute remaining. Coach Coles called some important time-outs in this quarter which allowed Weston to run the clock down and set up their attacks. Coming from one of the time outs, Weston set up a good attack, goalkeeper Simmonds took the ball from the re-start and passed it straight up front to Vincent who had taken up a good position. Vincent then dummied the defence and scored a sweet back hander to win the game..

There were many performances worthy of man of the match and the younger players of Watkins, Forbes and Gahame played well and learnt a lot from the game but the award, sponsored by the Woolpack, went to veteran Steve Etchells who worked tirelessly for the team and was strong in defence in this physical game.

Many thanks go to Joy Coles and helpers who ran the table.

Weston Seniors next game is on Thursday, April 22, at Hutton Moor v UWIC. Training is on Thursday at 9pm for seniors and Sundays at 6pm for all. New players welcome, for more information please visit www.weston-super-mare-swimming-club.co.uk

Team and goal scorers: Vincent (1), Simmonds, Farance (1), L Coles (1), Gahame, Edwards, Maloney (1), Goures, Rhian, Morgan, Forbes, S Coles (5), S Etchells (1).