Fledglings earn first away win at Maidenhead Mystics

Maidenhead Mystics 1 – 3 Leighton Buzzard Fledglings

The Fledglings earned their first away win of the season with a composed display against divisional newcomers the Maidenhead Mystics.

In an even first half Leighton were unlucky only to be rewarded with one short corner but goalless at half time was a fair reflection of the game at that stage.

However the Fledglings were quickly into their stride in the second half with both Peter Gale and Jacob Murtagh coming close to scoring. But then a lapse in concentration saw the home side get the opener, with a well-taken clipped shot that gave no chance to Stephen Farrell in the Leighton goal.

Undeterred, Leighton were level within five minutes. Smart work from Jordan Field saw him take a quick self-pass and drive the ball into the Mystics’ half and pass on to Steven Canty. Canty drove at the “D”: and fired in a cross for Gale to deflect past the Mystics’ keeper, for the equaliser.

Taking confidence from the goal the Fledglings then played their best hockey. Joint players of the match Steven Canty and Jacob Murtagh combined for the second goal when Canty’s cross from the right was met by an on rushing Murtgah who first lifted the ball and then skillfully volleyed into the goal.

Leighton looked dangerous on the break and further attempts from Murtagh, Gale and Joseph Giltrow all went close. A lung bursting seventy yard run from John Field then cut through the Mystics left flank before last ditch defending cleared the danger. Ultimately it was left to David Canty to seal the win. With ten minutes to go he thumped a short corner low to the keeper’s right, far too hard for the man on the post to deal with and just reward for David’s efforts in the game.

The Fledglings kept up their work rate for the last ten minutes and though exhausted by the end they were rewarded with their first away win.

Final score: 1 - 3 Leighton win, Maidenhead Mystics lose
Player(s) of the Match: Jacob Murtagh & Steven Canty