After a disappointing start to the season 'the Ding' returned to Sonning late in search of a much needed win against Canterbury who have also been struggling for points so fat this year.

The game started at a furious pace with one of the very first attacks of the game leading to a well taken half-volley Reverse stick goal from Jonty Clarke after being found well in the D by Jack Clee. Not long after the home faithful had finished celebrating a 1-0 lead they were on their feet again for a second goal just 9 seconds after the restart. The ball stolen straight from the push back by Dan Shingles, a 1-2 with Si Mantell followed by a diving reverse stick chip by Shingles over the oncoming goalkeeper and Reading are 2-0 up inside 3 minutes.

After such a frantic start the game calmed down a little, possession evened out with both teams having half chances with Canterbury looking dangerous on the counter attack. The Reading defence held strong and with a counter attack of their own were awarded a penalty stroke after a foul in front of goal on skipper Chris Newman after a Frank Lampard-esque run and some excellent ball carrying from Jonty Clarke. Clarke unfortunately could not convert the stroke, hitting the post, Canterbury raising a sigh of relief.

The reprieve didn't last long however and soon after the missed stroke Jack Clee was celebrating a 2nd goal in 3 games. A long, sliding pass from Rich Mantell was met by Clee who expertly deflected the ball over the goalkeepers shoulder. At this point Reading seemed to be in full control and heading for a simple 3 points. Canterbury had others ideas however and after an extended spell of possession scored 2 well worked set piece goals in quick succession to end the half.

The message at half time from Coach Watts was simple; keep our defensive structure, maintain possession and be more clinical and secure on the ball in attack. An even but frantic start to the second half made for some excellent viewing for the supporters. It was becoming very obvious that the next goal was go big to be crucial. The next goal came from another counter attack. Excellent work from Tom Carson led to a short corner of which Tom expertly converted. The sheer power of the flick proving too much for the Canterbury keeper. Reading lead 4-2. The lead was soon extended following some great work from Si Mantell after a long carry from the half way line, the ball fell to Jonty Clarke in the perfect position to finish the move making the score 5-2.

Canterbury did pull a goal back late in the game but it was too little too late as Reading pull through 5-3 winners and a much needed 3 points in the bag. Overall a much improved performance, some outstanding offence play with some work to be done defensively all over the pitch.

The M1s look forward to the their next league match this Sunday 2:30 pm at the Lane v Southgate. Any support will be very well received. We look forward to seeing you there.

Dan Shingles