Cowes Sports Reserves moved up to 3rd place in Harwoods Division 1 with a convincing win over Oakfield yesterday (7th February).
On a weekend heavily affected by the weather, the 3G surface at Cowes Enterprise College ensured the only Isle of Wight League fixture went ahead, and the Yachtsmen took full advantage.
After a bright start from the visiting side, the hosts opened the scoring on 20 minutes when Luke Smallwood reacted quickest to finish from close range after the ball had been headed off the goal line (1-0). Mark Goodwin was booked soon after, but the caution did little to disrupt his influence on proceedings.
Goodwin doubled the lead on 37 minutes, finding himself unmarked 30 yards from goal before carrying the ball into the penalty area and blasting past the Oakfield keeper Woodford (2-0). Cowes continued to press, and Jordan Whittle came agonisingly close twice before the break, smashing the crossbar first from inside the 6-yard box and then again from outside the penalty area.
Half Time: Cowes Sports Reserves 2-0 Oakfield
The Ryde team changed their defensive line up in the 2nd half, with Conor Venn returning to centre back after a 2-year absence due to a leg break, partnered by 52-year old Ricky Larbalestier. However, the Oakfield defence were unable to stop Goodwin from bagging his brace in the 49th minute when he powered his way past Woodford before placing the ball in an empty net (3-0)
Oakfield continued to compete well and created chances throughout the game, with Sid Roberts and Jay Labalestier proving a handful for the home side’s defence. Cowes goalkeeper Morgan Perrin – usually an outfield player – was severely tested on at least 4 occasions and produced a series of important saves, including a standout stop on 55 minutes, to preserve the clean sheet. His assured display earned Man-of-the-match honours.
The Yachtsmen sealed the points on 82 minutes. Goodwin again showed his composure, taking 2 attempts to beat Oakfield goalkeeper Ben Woodford and complete his hat-trick (4-0).
There was still time for a notable moment for Cowes substitute Connor Deacon, making his first appearance in men’s football, whose powerful strike crashed against the upright.
Full Time: Cowes Sports Reserves 4-0 Oakfield
After the game, Oakfield player player-manager Conor Venn struck a positive note on his side’s defeat, saying:
“Ben Woodford yet again proved why he’s one of the best keepers on the Island at the moment. Credit to Cowes and the young players who clearly have a bright future.”
The victory lifts Cowes Sports Reserves above Bembridge & Vectis into 3rd place in Harwoods Division 1 with 24 points from 16 games. Oakfield remain 9th with 9 points from 14 games, having competed well throughout.
