By Dick Sturch

Cranbrook 1sts 6, Millwey Rise 1sts 0

The score line in many respects is a bit of a travesty. Cranbrook eventually managed their first goal after some 35 minutes of play in which Millwey Rise gave as good as they got, and sometimes better.

Cranbrook's first goal came seconds after Luke Thurlow was inches wide from opening the score for Rise, but from the resultant 'big boot' Cranbrook clearance the ball bounced unkindly for a Millwey defender and the onrushing Cranford forwards eventually managed to force the ball over the goal line. For the rest of the half the honours were even.

The second period saw Rise give as good as they got but were undone by the quick break and passing game of their opponents.

Millwey went further behind from a corner headed in at the near post and from then on the more Millwey attempted to get on the scoresheet the more Cranbrook took advantage of the gaps they left.

The third goal came from a breakaway with the Rise defence exposed and poor marking led to the fourth.

Through all this Rise kept challenging and pressuring a resolute Cranbrook defence. Brett Garner was forced to produce two class saves to prevent further goals before a Millwey defender was caught in possession for their opponents fifth goal and the sixth came via the penalty spot for what appeared to be a very harsh decision in the melee of players involved.

Millwey never deserved to lose the game by this score. They were on the attack equally as much as the well-drilled Cranbrook but never quite had the ability to find the vital end result.

Imran Choudray had an outstanding game for Rise on his welcome return after injury and Luke Thurlow caused several moments of panic in the Cranbrook defence as he strived to get the ball in the net.

Next week Bravehearts 1st X1 are the visitors to Cloakham and Rise will again be sure of another very challenging game.