Great start to season for Thame United – Contributed

MATCH REPORT – League match – Tuesday, August 10, 2009 – Thame United 3, Farnborough Reserves 1

THAME United started the season in style at Wallingford on Tuesday evening when they defeated Farnborough Reserves 3-1. The visitors, who were formerly known as Bisley Sports, fielded several players who have played at a more senior level including former Northern Ireland under 21 International, and Wycombe Wanderers midfielder, Maurice Harkin. Nevertheless, Thame not only played with equal skill, but with a determination and passion which, on the night, outclassed the visitors.

Thame had the better of the opening exchanges but, after 16 minutes, Nik Rhodes was judged to have made an unfair challenge in the box, and a penalty was awarded. Farnborough?s impressive Mamadon Lamine buried the spot kick, giving Thame keeper, Lee Orkney no chance. Thame came back and seven minutes later, following a delightful 1-2 with Tom Hoskin, Adam Rhodes equalised with a strong shot, from an acute angle. Shortly before the break Orkney, who had not really been tested, did well to get his fingertips to a strong shot from Lamine, to deflect it over the crossbar.

Thame?s second goal came eight minutes after the restart when a hard hit corner, at chest level, was deflected into the net from close range by Thame captain, Dave Hocking (pictured). The final goal came in the 66th minute and was a beauty. Thame midfielder, Lawrence El-Kassir played a good ball into the box which was flicked on by Adam Rhodes to Mark Jones who quickly turned and beat his marker before hitting a well-placed shot into the right-hand corner. A few minutes later Orkney made another fine save for Thame. The final 20 minutes saw Thame fighting to increase their lead with both Luke Ricketts and Hoskin going close.

This was the best start to the season that Thame have has for several years. If they can keep the momentum and maintain their ?thirst? for goals, they could be challenging for the league title in April.

Thame United: Orkney, Cowan (Wakelin), Newell, N. Rhodes, Hocking, El- Kassir (Way), Connelly (Mitchell), A Rhodes, Hoskin, Jones, Ricketts

Photo: Steve Hocking