AFTER a four week break, MMG (Masons Moving Group) FC knew they had to be ready for this top of the table clash against Castle.

The reverse fixture earlier on in the season was a close game and MMG expected nothing different this time around.

The game started slow with the conditions and the pressure getting to both teams.

After a sloppy first 25 minutes MMG started to gain control of the game and the midfield trio of Rhys Jenkins, Courtney Aviet and Michael Fallas really began to apply pressure to the Castle midfield.

The MMG defence were coping well with the direct tactics of Castle and rarely looked under threat and when called upon, goalkeeper James Spear offered solidity.

The first goal came from a fantastic headed pass from Michael Fallas which was finished off well by Anthony Connell who lifted the ball over the on rushing goalkeeper.

MMG kicked on from this and were causing Castle no end of problems.

A great corner fell to Dimitri Fallas and he swivelled to keep the ball in play and a poor tackle from the Castle defender meant that MMG had the chance to double their lead from the penalty spot.

Anthony Connell stepped up and coolly despatched the penalty for his second goal of the game.

MMG went in at half time knowing that although they were in control of the game, it would only take one goal for Castle to be right back in it.

The second half started with the instruction to keep it tight and not allow Castle the opportunity to work their way back in.

The defence of Paul Eveleigh, Miles Harvey, James Carling and Tim Lednor worked tirelessly to make sure that nothing was getting through. With good chances from Dimitri Fallas, Josh Mazey and Anthony Connell, it was only great work from the Castle goalkeeper that stopped MMG adding to their lead. This seemed to spur Castle on and they started to grow into the game.

They almost got on the score sheet when a cross was whipped in from the right and a firm header from the Castle striker was goal bound but a fanatic strong arm from James Spear turned the ball around the far post. Castle did manage to half the deficit when a counter attack allowed the left winger to break free and cross for the striker to prod home.

For a ten minute spell after the goal, Castle had their tails up and were trying everything to equal the scoreline.

Two changes were made by MMG with Simon Colston replacing the tiring Josh Mazey and Barrie Cosslett replacing the hardworking Rhys Jenkins.

The two oncoming players added considerable height and presence to the team and they quickly settled in to the flow of the game.

The rest of the game was played out frantically with end to end football. Castle were throwing everything at the MMG defence but they stood strong and the game finished in a 2-1 victory.

Man of the match was awarded to Michael Fallas for a brave and hardworking performance.