Five-star opening sees Spalding 3rd net scalp

Spalding 3rd produced a stunning first half performance to claim the scalp of high-flying St Neots on Saturday with a 5-3 home win at Glen Park in Division 3NW.

All of Spalding’s goals came in the opening period as their flying start was rewarded by Tim Maltby’s opening goal.

Although the visitors equalised, Spalding were not deterred and Steve Rogers deflected a ball past the keeper to make the score 2-1.

Maltby then rounded the keeper to increase the lead before completing his hat-trick to give Spalding a 4-1 advantage.

Another goal quickly followed as Ryan Davy slotted home from close range before St Neots grabbed a second on the stroke of half-time.

The visitors came out for the second half with all guns blazing and their strong showing highlighted why they’re near the top of the league.

However, Spalding keeper Nathan Davy was in superb form while the defence of Willem Borst, Martin Perkins and Aaron Borst were solid in the tackle.

St Neots’ pressure resulted in a third goal, but Spalding’s fight and determination saw them hold out until the end for a fantastic win.

Spalding 2nd suffered a heavy 5-0 defeat away at Ely in the same division.

Though Spalding’s work rate and commitment was never in question, they were outplayed and were it not for some desperate defending and goalkeeping as well as Ely’s own wastefulness the scoreline could have been worse.

The 2nd team have always reacted to adversity and poor performances and will be hoping to do so when they return to action after the festive break.

Spalding Ladies 2nd were edged out after a narrow 3-2 home defeat against Ely 3rd in a close Division 3NW contest.
AJ Bunyan cancelled out Ely’s early opener before the visitors regained the lead before half-time.

Ely added a third after the break before Ellie Holland scored Spalding’s second.

The Ladies 3rd team also lost out by the odd goal after a 2-1 reversal at Spilsby in Division 4NW.

Lauren Spenceley had equalised for Spalding after the home side had taken a first half lead.

It looked likely that the points would be shared but Spilsby found the net in the closing stages to claim the victory.