28th August 2006 - Away 2.00pm KO vs. Sole Bay Hunters (Norwich & Peterborough Shield)

Result - Sole Bay Hunters 4 Mutford 0

Mutford set about defending the Norwich and Peterborough Building Society sponsored Southwold Shield in the picturesque surroundings of Southwold common. Last years game will be remembered for a classic four all draw and dramatic penalty shoot out. However this year was more clean cut with Sole Bay running out clear and deserved winners.

Playing a new system designed by Sole Bays wiley old manager to be more attacking, Sole Bay scored early with a powerful shot over the head of the Mutford stand in keeper, who was clearly unhappy between the sticks. The game then settled with Mutford struggling to find their rhythm and Sole Bay creating chances to extend their lead. Mutford also had their moments, the best two falling to Mickey Horne who was unlucky not find the net. As the half looked to be just about over Sole Bay made it 2-0 with another excellent shot into the top corner.

At half time the body language of the Mutford players gave little indication that a come back was on the cards, and Sole Bay scoring several more looked likely. But once the game restarted Mutford got their passing going and made a real effort against their powerful opponents. Although Sole Bay looked capable of scoring throughout the half Mutford at least enjoyed some success of their own, producing some excellent free flowing football to force Sole Bay backwards.

The two further Sole Bay goals came when changes were made at the back for Mutford and a short period of indecision allowed the game to go out of reach of the defending title holders. The game finished 4-0 to the home side and was deserved for an excellent display of football by Sole Bay.

After the game Mutford manager was not too disappointed with his players, "I felt that the best team won on the day. Having said that I felt we competed well, especially second half were in the past, in that same situation we have collapsed, we battled and made Sole Bay work for all their goals. Both teams can go into the season taking some positives from the game. I wish Sole Bay well in the A league. Shaun knows i look for his result almost as eagerly as I look at my own. They are a lovely club and we always look forward to seeing them, either at 11-a-side or in the summer tournaments."

The after match presentation of the shield by the generous sponsor is always well supported and an opportunity for the players and supporters of these two local to mingle. Once again all the parents and players of Mutford would like to thank the Norwich and Peterborough for their kind and generous sponsorship of this fixture and for Sole Bay and Southwold Football Club for use of their facilities.

Posted 14^nd September 2006