The third instalment of the Battle of Roxburgh. Team selection was much quicker this time, and without realising it we ended up with almost identical teams to last week.

We (whites) started strong and created the clearer chances early on. Johnny nearly scored with a rocket from distance, I forced a save after turning past Gary P, and Tom fizzed a great ball across the box that I could only steer wide.

Dave (Yellows) then snatched at a shot that, to my relief, he probably could’ve passed. Yellows seem to settle after that. The first goal came with some link play between Gary, Dave and Reuben. Johnny did well to prevent a goal initially but then failed to steer it clear and after a little ruckus, Reuben neatly finished. 1-0 Yellows.

Before half time, whites managed two well worked corners. I laid the first one off to Peter near the penalty spot who decided to try and do the limbo mid-shot, sending it into orbit. The second, I channelled my inner Trent and quickly found Tom open at the near post but he couldn’t properly connect his fancy flick.

At half time, due to the wind, we swapped sides. The second half continued with the same intensity. But whites finally found a breakthrough. Cush took a corner, Bri spilled it, and Anthony tapped in for 1–1. At that stage we pushed for a winner but left ourselves exposed. Gary slipped Andy through, who stayed composed to round Bren and make it 2–1. We then threw everyone forward, but despite a few chances, couldn’t equalise. Late on, Andy scored again with another poised finish, from range, to seal it at 3–1.

With only a minute left, to his surprise, I congratulated Gary - his first title in five seasons, and fully deserved. He’s arguably been the best player all season.

Man of the match goes to Andy. Special shoutout to Reuben, fortunately the pain from his dead leg masked the pain of losing the title.

Seeing as the black tie event isn’t happening, I thought this image below might appease the traditionalists in the team.

We go again next season.