Thirsk were overwhelmed with player availability and due to a shortage in the opposition ranks, all were accommodated with Monty, Ben and Sam playing the whole match for Aire Valley.
Thirsk started well as a team with the midfield of Orlando, Harry S, Freddie and Molly all having plenty of space and possession, threatening to overwhelm the opposition and combining well with Olivia, Elizabeth, Willow and Brody up front. Lots of passing to available players and good movement off the ball were making the opposition work hard. After an early Thirsk goal, AV surprisingly equalised when Oliver was completely fooled by one of his defenders slotting home, but Thirsk were soon back in control and re-took the lead before half time.
The second half was quite a contrast. The Thirsk loanees were now on first name terms with their temporary team-mates and started to hit Thirsk fast on the break from deep. Monty in particular had another great game and even your correspondent's most agricultural efforts to stop him proved futile. Caitlyn and Darcey were stalwarts in defence, but on this occasion, Thirsk were unable to prevent 3 unanswered goals, despite creating further plentiful opportunities, with Fraser showing some good skills on the wing.
Final score Thirsk 2 - 4 Aire Valley
Thanks to everyone who supported the team this season through coaching, umpiring, teas, transport and shouting. I sincerely hope this format continues to benefit from the support it needs from Thirsk and other clubs.