The 1st XI travelled to Bedford in round two of the Independent Schools Cup in what was to prove a thrilling match between two very even teams.
Bedford got off to a bright start as their right back and central midfield carried aggressively. The Framlingham one v one defending was found wanting, a missed tackle on the right baseline resulted in a neat finish from the Bedford forward to give the home side the lead. Framlingham began to wrestle back the advantage after some excellent pressing from the forward line resulting in midfield turnovers. Chances were created which we failed to convert until two minutes from half-time when captain Archie Winter skillfully eliminated two players and created a half volley for himself to smash home and draw the game level.
The second half followed an opposite pattern. The Framlingham side were in control for the first 20 minutes. A superb carry from Jack Hobbs down the left baseline delivered a cross which was firstly deflected by Harrison Stiles and finished by Kit McCausland at the far post. Bedford grew and fed off a number of turnovers from the away side, eventually equalising from a penalty corner with five minutes remaining. The draw meant a penalty stroke competition for the second cup game in a row. Having missed the first stroke Framlingham were relying on Eddie Darley to make a save but he was given little chance with a series of fine penalties.
A very enjoyable and well fought game and good luck to Bedford who play Felsted in the next round.
