Thame beat bogey Binfield in close-fought battle

BINFIELD are one of the bogey teams that Thame United has failed to beat since the teams first met in the 2007/8 season. This changed on Saturday (09/11) when Thame narrowly defeated them 2-1 in a close fought contest at the ASM Stadium.

It was a fast, entertaining, game which was played on the coldest afternoon of the season so far. United scored both of their goals in the first half, and at half time, a comfortable win was anticipated, but the visitors had other ideas, and almost forced a draw.

Thame started brightly but, once the visitors settled, play was fairly even. There was drama after 20 minutes when the visiting keeper picked up a deliberate back pass and Thame were awarded an indirect free kick in their opponent’s box. Lewis Cordice touched the ball to Niall Hodgkins whose shot was blocked by the wall, but the ball fell to Shannon Jesson who’s first- time shot brought an excellent save from the visiting keeper. Thame took the lead in the 32nd minute. Jesson played a ball to Cordice near the half way line, putting him clear of defenders and allowing him to run along the right wing before cutting in and crossing to Luke Ricketts who met the ball with a strong shot giving the keeper no chance.

Thame’s second goal came 10 minutes later and was similar to the first. This time Ben Connelly played a through ball which Cordice collected and again ran on the right before crossing to Rickets who again buried the ball in the opponents net.

Thame dominated the first few minutes after the break and Ricketts was unlucky to miss his hat-trick when he volleyed a half chance over the bar. The visitors brought on substitutes and the game swung their way, causing Thame to defend for long periods. Binfield’s goal came with 10 minutes remaining when a slick passing move allowed Seb Bowerman to beat Lee Farrow from 10-yards. The final few minutes were nail biting but, helped by some great goalkeeping by Farrow, United held out to claim their first victory.

Thame United: Farrow, I Pykett, P Pykett, Hercules, Rhodes, lynch, Connelly Jesson, Hodgkins (Collins) Cordice (Johnson), Ricketts.

After Tuesday’s cup game against AFC Hinksey, United have a series of away matches. The next home fixture is on Saturday 7th December when Abingdon Town are the visitors.

SOURCE: Contributed by Bob Dixon