Newbury Not at the Races

United started the weekend in 15th league position and finished it in 8th.

The home side had the better of the opening exchanges with Ellis Hercules going close with a spectacular overhead kick in the first few minutes. The opening goal came on 7 minutes when Taylor Collins hit a strong cross cum shot from the left, which the visiting keeper parried into the path of Lynton Goss who reacted quickly to finish well from 5 yards. Just when it looked as if Thame were in control, goalkeeper Lee Farrow was forced to make an excellent save from a Tom McClean shot. Minutes later the visiting keeper made an equally good save from a strong Goss shot. United’s second came on 23 minutes when captain Nik Rhodes did well to head home a Goss free kick. It was 3-0 two minutes later when the talented Collins hit a perfect ball from the right and Niall Hodgkins headed home at the far post. Thame led 3-0 at half time.

Thame continued to create more chances than their opponents in the second half, but were unable to increase their goal tally, although Rhodes, Collins, and substitute Luke Rickets all went close. With about 10 minutes remaining the visitors were awarded a free kick 30 yards from goal. Danny Blatchford hit the ball hard and McClean got a touch to divert the ball wide of Farrow into the far corner.

Overall it was a good performance from the Thame team who, it they can maintain this form, could surprise a few people this season.

Thame United: Farrow, Willett, Hayes, Hercules, Rhodes, Jewell, Connelly (Green), Lynch, Hodgkins, Collins (Dell), Goss (Ricketts),