Visage v Warlingham

Visage displayed a new side to their game on a blustery Bayham morning, showing real grit and determination to overcome a fiercely competitive and well drilled Warlingham Warriors.

This was not a match for the faint hearted, played at pace and with a physicality that Foresters had not encountered before. And for the first 10 minutes it showed, with Wallingham bossing the game, and coupled with excellent movement and organization, for the first time in weeks Visage were in danger of being overrun. Playing downhill in the first half, the visitors ploughed through midfield and defense, and only sharp goalkeeping again by Charlie kept the scores level. At the other end, Visage’s usual ability to run through opponents was stifled by a muscular Warlingham back line. Eventually, the pressure told, and sheer attacking numbers and some good passing saw the Wallingham striker free to shoot and score from close range.

At this point, you might have feared the worst, but this Visage team have guts as well as technical ability and in a remarkable 7 minute blast, they suddenly found their feet, with the dynamic trio of Jude, Lucas and Anthony getting behind the Warlingham defenses time and again, firing crosses into the area, and seeing George score probably the fastest hat-trick of his life, concluded with a beautiful drive into the corner off his “weaker” right foot, immediately after Jude had blasted in a screamer from long range. Warlingham responded immediately from the kick off as Visage momentarily lost concentration, but an unfortunate own goal relieved the pressure and the home team went into half time in front, but perhaps a little flattered by the scoring.

The second half was a scrappier affair, with much of the play concentrated in fierce battles in the center of the park, but as the boys tired, space appeared and Visage began to assert themselves, running through Warlingham and creating numerous chances. Charlie, replaced solidly in goal by George, followed a typically high energy charge from midfield with a fizzing shot into the far corner, and shortly afterwards Joe, who added some fight to his usual composed presence in defense in the first half, broke free and calmly slotted the ball past the advancing Warlingham keeper. With Lucas fearless in midfield, and Anthony disciplined and solid in an unaccustomed stint at the back, Warlingham struggled to create chances despite a never say die attitude.

This was another hugely entertaining and impressive performance from Visage. They have shown themselves to be quick, disciplined and skillful in the past, but here they showed courage and determination against a tough and intimidating opposition, without giving an inch. Once again, well done lads!