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For the trip to St Andrews HOLT UNITED were almost at full strength with only Philip Durham missing from the squad. Holt kicked off in confident mode and did most of the early running. Holt did not look as fluent as in recent games and the front three of Colm McGilway, Billy Edwards and Daniel Peczkwoski found it difficult to get into a meaningful rhythm. Midway through the half David Thompson was replaced by Chris English and Holt’s defence readjusted. A good run from Edwards, after being set free by a good ball from Jason Hawkins, resulted in a good shot that was marginally wide. Holt continued to press and won three corners in quick succession but were unable to press home the advantage and the half ended all square. After twenty of the second period Holt fell behind when a defensive header from near the halfway line was misdirected into the path of St. Andrews’ Leon Huckle who raced clear and gave Justyn Goff, in the Holt goal, no chance with a competent finish. St. Andrews now had their most prominent part of the match and Goff had to be at his best to prevent their lead being increased with a couple of very good saves. Manager Jim Blandford reacted to the situation and Toby Blowers and Tom Graver were introduced into the game with Peczkwoski and Hawkins making way. Holt began to regain their supremacy in the game and pressed hard to get back on terms. A corner on the right was won and was taken by Kevin Moore. His well flighted kick was met perfectly by the inrushing Steven Thompson to score his first goal for the club. Moments later another flowing move ended with Blowers getting in a good header which struck the post. With five minutes left Holt’s pressure paid off when a fine cross from Matthew Sanders, who had had a fine second half, was headed firmly home by Graver. With English and centre backs James Medlar and the outstanding Gavin Neale all performing superbly this victory, in which the team showed a wonderful fighting spirit, has put them on top of the table with four league games remaining. Loddon must still be favourites for the title being three points behind Holt but with three games in hand. The only other main threat comes from Watton who are five points adrift with two games in hand ..... and the two have to meet each other.
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