The Old Campbellian Society

What a difference a week makes!

After a lack-lustre one all draw at the same venue just seven days previously, the two teams met again at UUJ, to contest the Semi-Final of the Sussex Regiment (League) Cup.

This was a completely different Campbellians side. Same players but a total reversal of attitude and committment.

Campbellians started with pace; and just ten minutes in Joel Easlea found Chris Ashenhurst on the right of the PSNI circle. Chris swept the ball back to the oncoming Luke McClurg, who expertly buried it in the back of the home net. One nil.

Next it was Andy Burnside's turn to act provider. A scintillating run past four defenders, brought him to the backline; and a pin point pass to the waiting Adam Campbell saw the ball tapped in to give the visitors a two nil lead.

But the home side fought back and won a penalty corner just before the break. Chris Barnes stepped up and it was almost a foregone conclusion that the half time scoreline would be 2-1 in favour of Campbellians.

Too often this season the 1stX1 have tired during the second period, allowing the opposition to get back into the match. However not this time. Campbellians upped the work rate and piled the pressure on the home defence.

Alex Todd set off on a mesmerising run from the half way line, made it into the opposition circle, and had the composure to pick out Chris Ashenhurst. The young forward only needed a millisecond to outdo the Barnes effort from the last meeting, with an absolute belter of a reverse stick shot, which gave the home 'keeper absolutely no chance.

David Deane was next. A trademark exocet sprint into the PSNI circle saw him flick the ball past the 'keeper with great skill. Deano was still celebrating 30 seconds later when the umpires cruelly disallowed the goal for some unknown reason. It was however a great goal (and an impressive celebration).

By now, the PSNI defence were struggling under the onslaught; and it was left to Joel Easlea to finally bury a drag flick in the roof of the home net to complete the evening and book a place in the Final.

This was Campbellians at their best.

Every man stepped up to the mark. The play was fast. The ball zipped around, with crisp passes; and the chances were taken when it mattered.