Ipswich Wanderers 1-2 Leiston Reserves - Match Report

In what was very much a game of two halves, Leiston Reserves came out on top against a hard working, well organised Ipswich Wanderers side, writes Reserve Assistant Manager Dean Last.

Leiston were first out the blocks, enjoying large spells of possession in a first half that saw the young side create a number of chances from free flowing football. Josh Cheetham was orchestrating things from midfield and Louie Bloom and Jourdan Kiwomya very active in front of him. Leiston took the lead after great team play lead to Jac Garrard converting from close range, the goal being the just rewards for his hard work. Shortly afterwards, Leiston found themselves two goals to the good. This time Garrard was the provider after his cross found the constant threat of Bloom to head in at the far post. As half time approached Wanderers found a way back into the game, maybe against the run of play. A ball over the top of the Blues’ back four was not dealt with, and with Harry Lay-Fulcher misreading the bounce, the Wanderers player finished calmly.

The second half was very much a different story to the first period. Wanderers enjoyed large spells of possession and pressed the Leiston back line far higher up the pitch. But, showing a significant degree of character, determination, will and a maturity that surpassed their age, the Leiston players dug in and managed to restrict and limit Wanderers to few chances. Leiston looked dangerous on the counter attack, especially Bloom who was always a good outlet.

In what was a very competitive fixture, and with both teams working hard throughout on a tough pitch, it was a great game. We thank Ipswich Wanderers for their hospitality and wish them well for the rest of the season.

The Reserves host Diss Town in their next league match at Victory Road on Saturday 5th January.

FT:- Ipswich Wanderers 1-2 Leiston Reserves.

Reserve line-up:- Lay-Fulcher, Groom, Hammond, Cheetham (Coldwell), Gaffer, Canham, Blades, Carrigan, Kiwomya (Shopov), Garrard (Seymour), Bloom. Sub not used:- Mansfield.

Man of the match:- Louie Bloom.