Tamworth Men's Firsts Vs Mansfield

Tamworth Men's First XI won 5-4 in a dramatic game vs Mansfield.  Tamworth had a strong line up and it showed as they quickly took control of the midfield, dominating possession and pushing back their hosts.  Ben Popple was causing problems with his pace and Tom Hancox was managing to find space up front and went close to scoring, first with a shot from close range which was smothered by the keeper before hitting the side netting from a tight angle.  Soon after Hancox's efforts were rewarded when he found space on the left and shot across the keeper to open the scoring.  The goal seemed to  open the game up further and Ben Acton played a pin point long pass which resulted in Hancox being released to score his second.  Popple got in on the act when he was played in round the back and drove across the D to leave himself a simple finish.  Tamworth should have been enjoying a 3 goal lead at the break but Mansfield pulled one back on the stroke of half time.

In the second period Mansfield flew out of the blocks and reduced the deficit before Ian Wagstaff restored Tamworth's two goal advantage with a pinpoint flick from a penalty corner.  Tamworth then had to weather a period of pressure with Mansfield hitting back again with a penalty corner goal of their own and Ben Acheson sent to the sin bin.  Once restored to full strength Tamworth scored their fifth goal with Ryan Brisco allowed to drive into the D unchallenged before he drilled his shot into the bottom left corner before Mansfield hit back with two goals to leave a nervy finish for Town as they held on for the win.