Men's 3s vs Norton 2

Third team match

Stockton M3: 4

Norton M2: 1

Stockton Men’s Third ran out convincing winners against local rivals Norton in an energetic performance which showcased an exciting blend of youth and experience.

An extensive Stockton squad took the initiative early. Driving forward runs from the skilful pair of Jake Wheatley and Nathan Williams caused panic for the visiting rearguard. Richie Harriman up front looked a constant threat for the home side; before John Stout (a commanding presence in the midfield) played in Harriman’s strike partner Dave Skirving.

Skirving made the most of a great through-ball onto his lead run into the top of the circle and produced a deadly finish past the onrushing keeper for the lead.

Matt Payne secured things in the Stockton backline, battling hard against a physical Norton forward - ably supported by Stuart Aucott who wrestled possession from oncoming Norton attackers.

Matt Robson in the Stockton net marshalled his defenders and leapt into action when called upon. At the other end, Stockton began to pile on the pressure, the skilful Ben Pumphrey earning a penalty corner with some cool headed twists and turns in the Norton circle. It looked as if the chance had gone as the set piece broke down at the head of the shooting circle, until skipper Derek Moore jabbed a through ball into space for striker Phil Molyneux to latch onto. With space to approach the penalty spot, Molyneux found the far corner of the goal and both a diving keeper and defender on the line couldn’t do enough to stop the ball crossing the line for a half-time Stockton lead of 2-0. 

A similar story in the second half as Stockton’s energy proved too much for Norton’s experienced line-up. Harriman got in on the scoring, cutting in from the left and finishing with aplomb when given a second bite of the cherry. Norton battled to an excellent consolation goal on a breakaway but the last word was Stockton’s and Skirving’s.

Stockton went from front to back in two passes as Rich Hall intercepted at the top of his own circle before firing a pinpoint 50 yard pass to Molyneux deep in Norton territory. Skirving was flying into space, and Molyneux found him toward the edge of the circle - outpacing his marker, Skirving flew into the circle before deceiving the keeper, and finishing beautifully to round off a great move.

Stockton consolidated their lead and controlled things in the final stages to secure an excellent win.

Man of the Match: Dave Skirving