26/04/2026
Yesterday, as our season draws to a close, we welcomed Market Bosworth Sonics to Estadio RMD. Glorious weather, the pitch still holding up well despite the recent tractor theft.
We sadly lost Carter to a speight of nose bleeds, but we were able to give Tommy a chance for his taste of Thunder action.
In an even contest defined by incredible refereeing, the first half was a frustrating one for Thunder.
A host of chances, falling for Cooper, Finley, Markiian, Rowan, Aodhan, Benji; their keeper was up to them all. Including three exceptional saves. At the other end our recent habits of not wanting to track back came back to bite us, as Bosworth took the lead with a brilliant finish, taking advantage of a 5 on 3 overload. The scorer did remove his shirt and was booked accordingly. We did respond quickly; Cooper with arguably the assist of the season. Receieved the ball, looked up, and threaded a lofted pass with a bit of curl on it straight in front of Rowan to score his 40th Thunder goal of the season. Having scored 12 goals against the Sonics already this season, it was somewhat inevitable.
Sonics reclaimed the lead from a corner. Some disarray, a few swings and a miss, and they got it in. Tommy got on, and slotted in really well. Pleasingly, each time he got on the ball, he picked out a really good pass. An excellent start!
Half time came, and the Thunder were hungry to get back into the game. Leo, a great challenge and clearance to Finley, who slotted in Rowan to score again.
From there, it was quite even, more of the play with us, but chances at either end. Rowan through on goal but being taking out by a vicious tackle that left him in a heap was a particular highlight (absolutely nobody near him). Archie and Markiian worked hard down the right, Sammy, Leo and Tommy kept the defence assured. Finn's distribution was much better in the 2nd half. The longer grass was causing issues for the quick feet of Benj and Oakley, but both were really dynamic.
In the end, a sporting draw, a game we could have won, but a good game between two good teams.
Cooper received the SPOTM, a great return to form and effort today. The assist alone deserved the recognition.
My award went to Finley. Alongside the assist, it is so noticeable on the pitch how much he talks, organises, encourages. He also has an instinct that as soon as we lose the ball, he wants it back. A super performance from a super player. Big shout out to Rowan, with 14 goals against today's opponents this season, but especially for the air shot. Priviledge to have been on the pitch as ref and be so close to see that 🤣
