Mens 1st XI vs Richmond 3s

Crostyx M1’s hopes were set high for a win against Richmond 3s that would kickstart their season. A young and energetic Crostyx squad featured Liam Higgins, who made his debut for the first team.

Crostyx opened the game looking strong and confident creating chance after chance in the first 15 minutes with Jack Dempsey and Izzy Duck both going close.

Shortly after, a well worked piece of outfield play saw Richmond enter the Crostyx D, and with Robin Wallich slightly out of position, midfielder Hugo Standring was left defending the goal line. The shot from Richmond left Hugo little time to react, and after a long discussion by the umpires a penalty flick was finally awarded for a foot on the line.

The Crostyx crowd fell silent as the flick was taken. Robin dived to the left and with his trailing left kicker pulled off a sensational save which would later earn him champagne moment of the match. Despite the heroic save Richmond followed this with 2 quick goals to stun Crostyx.

some solid tackles by James Preston at centre back stopped the rot and it wasn’t long before Alfie Tedder slotted in a goal during open play when a short corner move broke down early on in the second half.

A comeback was looking on. The opposition picked up several green cards and then a yellow for a foul on Tim Richard’s as Crostyx piled on the pressure. The pick of the chances was a classic run from the skipper (Aaron Phillips), which saw him ride a number of clumsy tackles as he drove from half way to base line and opened up a chance for Max Wadsworth at the back post. Max just couldn’t get his feet round in time to reach the ball and the chance went begging.

The home side's tails were up going into the final minutes of the game looking for an equaliser and the team fought hard but sadly despite the commitment and great character shown they were unable to find the back of the net and Richmond came away with the 3 points.

West Hampstead on the road next week.