The Ely Mens 2nd IV suffered their first defeat of the season with a 6-3 away loss to a strong Long Sutton 2 leading the table. The team started with a depleted back four as season regulars Robert Minns and Richard Winrow were unavailable.

Shaun Atkins started at left back with Sam Dunkley being recalled form the midfield to start as right back. Neil Dodsworth suffering from an ankle injury settled into centre back with a welcomed return of Dave Williams following his recent nuptials completed the back for.

Rowan Taylor joined the side once again with a guest appearance from Martin brown on loan from the 3rds completing the 11.

Ely started the half with little composure repeatedly giving the ball away against a clinical Long Sutton team going down quickly by two well executed goals that keeper Ian Grange could do little about.
Chris Beaumont netted to bring Ely back within a goal of the opposition but Sutton responded to clinch a 3-1 lead at half time.

At half time many a discussion was had, words from Tim Reynolds and Captain Neil rallied some belief in the players. Did I mention Neil was injured? The beginning of the second half saw Ely start the better.
A goal straight from the off by a series of passes and a conversion by Chris Beaumont told Sutton Ely meant business. It was however only a momentary wobble for Sutton who soon regained confidence scoring more goals in retaliation.

The highlight of the day was Ely’s 3rd goal Mike Wilderspin carried the ball all the way up the pitch to pass and give Warren the last Ely goal.

During the second half Ely were riddled with injuries Martin brown catching an aerial ball on the wrist and having to take a seat on the bench.

To capitalise already injured Neil Dodsworth turned his injured ankle to become even more injured, limping off the pitch with his injury after some theatrical wobbles.

Tim Reynolds had the chance to regain some dignity for the visiting side but failed to put the ball into an open net. The game finished at 6-3, with the better side winning the game.

Ely play City of Peterborough 5 at home on Saturday.

Thanks for Sam for his help with the report.