Late goals take Cheam to the top (From Croydon Guardian)

Late goals take Cheam to the top

5:29pm Monday 8th February 2010 in

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Cheam Hockey Club’s men went to the top of Surrey Division Three after a 2-1 home victory over Spencer Saints in a tense encounter on Saturday.

It took some heroic defending from the Spencer defence, with several short corners cleared off the line, to keep Cheam out in the first half.

And their frustration continued after the break. After Stuart Lawrence was fouled by the Spencer keeper, Gareth Lautenberg’s flick was saved.

Cheam also lost skipper Omar Shibli to injury and it began to look as though the Saints could escape with a point.

But, with 15 minutes left, top-scorer Faraz Shibli converted a slick short corner routine to put Cheam in front.

And, five minutes later, it was 2-0 when Andy Ventris broke before crossing for Stuart Lawrence to score.

Although Spencer pulled one back to set up a close finish, Cheam held on to go two points clear at the top.

Oliver Perez (two), Derry Brophy, James Mantle and Gary Morley were on target for Cheam II, who consoliated second placed in Surrey Open One with a 5-1 win at Woking.

There was also victory for Cheam III, Richard Coleman (two) and Marcus Eales scoring in the 3-2 win at Wanderers.

But Cheam Ladies were ruthlessply punished by Wanderers in their Surrey Division One clash. Sylvanna Fellowes netted for the home side 10 minutes from time.