SDFL division four

South Brent reserves 3,

Dittisham United 1

The Plums travelled to South Brent again this week and again struggled with a mix and match side.

A mixture of injuries and other commitments meant they started the game with just 11 men, manager Paul Rowden having to start the game at right-back.

However, the Plums started well and closed down South Brent high up the pitch.

South Brent somehow managed to bundle the ball in at the back post following a deep cross after 15 minutes.

The old cliche of 'you're always vulnerable straight after you score' came into play as Dittisham went up the other end and scored a fantastic equaliser.

Winger Aaron Soper danced past his marker and bent the ball into the bottom corner just out of the 'keeper's reach to level up matters.

However, Dittisham then found themselves behind straight from the resulting kick-off after a defensive misunderstanding saw the centre forward tapping in from close range.

The second half saw wave after wave of Dittisham attacks, trying to draw level. Dan Bastin  and Deano Martyn joined in well, passing the ball out from the back.

Dave Vicary was dominant in midfield and Joe Blamey set up attack after attack, finding himself between the lines well.

Sam Bruckner was the Plums' man-of-the-match. Playing up front on his own, the little man worked tirelessly to put the Brent defence under pressure.

Playing as a centre forward alone is never easy, but he certainly deserved a goal if anyone ever has.

Unfortunately, however, it wasn't to be and the lads will look to bounce back tomorrow as they make the short trip to Longcross to face Dartmouth reserves.

This contest is the league cup quarter-final replay after South Brent were eliminated for playing an ineligible player.

Kick-off is 2pm and the Plums will welcome any support for this, the first of three fiery derby matches coming up before the end of the season.