ESM 4s 3 - 2 Grange 7s (18th January 2014)

Grange Men’s 7s entered the New Year with an away fixture to ESM 4s, a team who defeated the side 7-0 in the previous encounter. But following a string of good results there was an air of optimism going into the fixture and this proved correct as the tie was a much closer affair.

The first half saw a lot of pressure from the home side as they bombarded the Grange goal, but the defence of S.Jamieson, P.Diamond, E.Ervine and R.Sui held strong putting in numerous last-ditch tackles to keep the side in the game. Grange opportunities were limited in the first half and they eventually went one down through a short corner. Goal keeper R.Miller pulled of two fantastic saves but the third effort within seconds found the bottom corner. The half finished 1-0 to ESM 4, but Grange knew they were not out of it by any means.

Starting the second half ESM 4 came out fast and got a goal within 5 minutes of the restart to double their lead. This kicked the Grange side into action as they began to play a much more aggressive, attacking game. As they flowed forward, good chances began to appear and A.Lornie was unlucky not covert one of his strikes. The break through finally came as the ever present M.Pennycook started an attacked, the ball found its way into the D where P.Cockburn applied his usual finish of the left wing.

There was a new determination now which was shown by the tireless play of A.Longmate and J.Barrie. The equalizer eventual came through some intricate midfield play which saw A.Lornie provide the assist to M.Campbell who scored from the reverse stick side. Unfortunately with only moments remaining before the whistle ESM 4 struck on the counter attack to nab the point from the Grange Men, proving why they are title contenders. It was a disappointing end to such a great display, but quickly attentions were turned to the vast improvement the squad has made this season.

It was a valiant effort from whole team including the subs of D.Behan, I.Jameson and J.H.Johnston. Grange now go forward to play WIT 2 at home, were they will be expecting a similar performance but a better a result.