Mens 4th XI vs Salisbury 3

Trojans Men’s 4th XI made it back-to-back unbeaten games with a superb 3–1 victory over Salisbury 3rd XI in their fourth South Central Division 4 fixture — an impressive result against another top-of-the-table side.

It was far from a smooth start to the afternoon. With player numbers stretched thin yet again, and a long delay to even get onto the pitch thanks to Salisbury’s captain misplacing the caretaker with the gate keys, the pre-match mood was one of quiet amusement and mild frustration. The setting at Embley Park, however, offered some compensation — a picturesque autumnal countryside backdrop for what would turn into one of Trojans’ most spirited performances of the season.

The first half saw Salisbury dominate the early exchanges. Their quick movement and organised press pinned Trojans back, and despite creating a few promising chances on the break, Trojans found themselves 1–0 down before half-time after a blistering strike from the top of the D rocketed off the inside of the right-hand post and into the net. Trojans’ defensive shape wasn’t quite clicking, and the pace of Salisbury’s attacks kept them on their toes.

A tactical rethink at the break changed everything. With some clever adjustments in midfield, Trojans began to find rhythm and control. Ten minutes into the second half, they were level. From a well-worked short corner routine, Greg Cox received the ball at the top of the D and struck cleanly, sending a low, powerful sweep past the keeper and just inside the left-hand post to make it 1–1.

Just ten minutes later, Trojans were ahead. From a free hit around the 25-metre line, Greg Cox spotted David Henderson in space near the penalty spot and fired a precise pass into him. Henderson deftly deflected it into the bottom-left corner — a smart, clinical finish that turned the game on its head.

Momentum now firmly with Trojans, the third goal came just five minutes later and sealed the victory in style. Dan Hart weaved his way through the Salisbury lines with a dazzling solo run from left to right, slicing into the D before firing a shot that rattled off the right-hand post. Fortunately, it fell perfectly for Matt Pickles, who gleefully flicked home the rebound to make it 3–1.

The final ten minutes saw Salisbury throw everything forward, but Trojans held firm. The defence stood tall, calmly managing the pressure and restricting Salisbury to only a handful of half-chances that were confidently dealt with.

It was a brilliant all-round team performance, defined by determination, smart tactical adjustments, and some top-quality finishing. The win lifts Trojans up to 7th place in the league — a strong sign that the team’s form is heading in the right direction.

Man of the Match: Tom Eaglesfield – an excellent debut performance at left back, showing composure, strength, and vision while playing out of position.

Champagne Moment: The third goal – Dan Hart’s mazy run and Pickles’ quick finish to cap off a stunning attacking move.

A memorable afternoon in the countryside — a tough, well-earned win that proved this Trojans side has both heart and quality.