Albury Hawks vs. Cranleigh FC: The comeback of all comebacks

Saturday, February 8th was a day to remember for the spectators who braved the biting cold in Grafham. The game was played on a 3G pitch that, in the low light, resembled volcanic sand, adding to the surreal and humorous atmosphere of the match and with bare minimum of 7 players and no subs, we could expect a hard days work from the boys.

The game kicked off and the Hawks came out strong, with Max and Araron orchestrating the play from the midfield like seasoned conductors and Keiron ensuring the players stayed honest from within the goal. The Hawks slick passing and clever movement kept Cranleigh FC on the back foot for most of the first quarter. Thomas' pinpoint through-balls and Aaron's relentless pressing were a joy to watch, and it seemed like the Hawks were on course for an early lead but it was Cranleigh who broke the deadlock first. Against the run of play, Cranleigh capitalized on a rare defensive lapse from the Hawks to go 1-0 up.

The goal was a stark reminder that in football, anything can happen (and regularly does). It was a classic case of making the most out of limited opportunities, and Cranleigh FC certainly did that. The Hawks, despite their superior possession and control, found themselves chasing the game.

As the game entered the second quarter, the Hawks were throwing the kitchen sink at Cranleigh. The pressure was mounting, the fans were getting over excited, and it seemed like it was only a matter of time before the Hawks would find the back of the net.

Lucian continued to spray accurate passes from the back, George and Arthur were making darting runs up front and we were dominating the midfield, with Aaron's wing play causing all sorts of problems. The Hawks' relentless pressure saw Cranleigh's defense living on borrowed time, constantly being pulled apart by the slick passing and movement of the Albury attackers, like a nice slow roast piece of pork. Yum!

Despite the relentless pressure, luck seemed to be favoring Cranleigh. Max, after a stunning display of dribbling and quick footwork, unleashed a powerful shot that cannoned off the woodwork, leaving the fans with a collective gasp of disbelief. Not long after, George, finding space just outside the box, struck a thunderous shot that also rattled the frame of the goal.

Despite their best efforts and the numerous chances created, the woodwork seemed to have a personal vendetta against the Hawks that day.

The Hawks were desperately seeking an equalizer. Then came the moment the Albury fans had been waiting for. Aaron delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, and Arthur, with nerves of steel, connected with a thunderous strike. The ball rocketed into the top corner of the net, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance and drawing the Hawks level.

The magnificent Albury support erupted in celebration as Arthur's beautiful goal not only brought the Hawks back into the game but also showcased the resilience and talent of the team. It was a fitting riposte from the Hawks.

Towards the end of the game, with the Hawks relentlessly pressing for the winner, it was the 'fox in the box' George who delivered the decisive blow. After some fantastic build-up play by Max and Thomas, who combined their creativity and vision to carve open the Cranleigh defense, George found himself in the perfect position to strike.

Max, weaving through the midfield, struck a powerful drive goalward, which was well saved but with the goal at his mercy, George showed his predatory instincts by calmly slotting the ball into the bottom corner, sending the Albury fans into rapturous celebration.

The final whistle blew shortly after, sealing a dramatic 2-1 victory for the Hawks. It was a fitting end to a rollercoaster of a match, with George's clinical finish capping off a day of thrilling football, comedic moments, and sheer determination.

Despite the relentless pressure from the Albury Hawks, it was probably Cranleigh’s goalkeeper who earned the Man of the Match honors. His heroic saves and quick reflexes kept Cranleigh in the game, showcasing the sheer dominance of the Hawks throughout the match. His performance was a testament to the Hawks’ attacking prowess and relentless pursuit of goals. Time and again, the keeper thwarted the likes of Max, George, and Arthur, denying them what seemed like certain goals.

The game ended with a well-deserved 2-1 victory for the Albury Hawks, filled with unforgettable moments, from Lucian's quick feet to Max's midfield mastery, Aaron’s dazzling wing play, Keiron's constant battling, Thomas' heroics in midfield, Arthur’s thunderous equalizer, and George’s decisive winning goal. The match will be remembered not just for the football, but for the unexpected twists, and of course, the strange black pitch.

Fans left the walled garden with stories to tell, and extremely cold hands.

Well deserved MoTM went to Aaron for his resilience and battling.