Broadbridge Heath 3-1 Phoenix Sports

Broadbridge Heath made it 6 games unbeaten following their 3-1 home win over Phoenix Sports in the South East division but the game was much closer than the score line suggests.

Sports started the game well and had the lion’s share of possession early on but it was the Bears who took the lead with their first noteworthy attack on 14 minutes when a long throw-in from Kyle Sim on the right was headed on by Tad Bromage to his defensive partner Ryan Brackpool in space at the far post and the Bears skipper picked his spot to score with a right foot effort from close range.

Louis Evans made it 2-0 midway through the half when the Sports goalkeeper Andy Walker came running out his area to gather the ball with his feet but was dispossessed by Ben Aubrey, the ball came across to Evans, returning from injury and making his first start for seven games, who slotted home from 20 yards to give Heath a somewhat fortunate 2-0 lead at the break.

The second half began with the visitors on the ascendancy but despite some good build-up play they lacked a decisive finish that was until the 61st minute when Tashi Jay Kwayie reduced the deficit with a goal to make it 2-1.

Heath were now on the back-foot as the visitors searched in vain for the equaliser but despite the pressure Heath goalkeeper Alfie Hadfield was rarely troubled.

Deep into time added on and a quick Heath counter attack saw Sam Lemon in acres of space some 20 yards from Goal and the Bears striker rifled a right foot shot that flew past Walker into the back of the net to secure the points.

After the game Heath manager Simmons said “It was not a great game of football but another 3 really important points, the first 25 minutes and a fantastic strike from Sam Lemon were the only real bits of quality by us today” but added “The lads have earned this run of form and results from the work they have put in”.

MOM: Tadley Bromage

Next up for the Bears is another home fixture when we welcome current division leaders Cray Valley (PM) to the BodyMould Community Stadium on Saturday 30th March, Kick Off 3.00pm.

Team: Hadfield, Sim, Chesworth, Penfold, Bromage, Brackpool, Lemon, Buchanan, Aubrey (Lindsey 71), Evans, Doughty (Parmiter 59).