Moneys Cash In Late Twice - Aylesbury vs. Moneyfields

Sunny day in Aylesbury

This weekend, the weather on Saturday wasn't as bad as forecast so with a couple of games in mind, I set off, constantly refreshing Twitter to see who would confirm first that their game was definitely on. Aylesbury just pipped Burnham and so I would move one step closer to completing The Southern League East Division (just AFC Rushden and Diamonds and Hayes and Yeading to go). Their opponents today were Moneyfields who I saw play an FA Cup tie with Longwell Green of The Western League many seasons ago. This was Moneyfield's first season at this level and they were just outside the play offs at kick off although seven points back. Aylesbury were close to the bottom but with only one side going down this season and with Arlesey twenty points behind they should be safe. The reverse fixture in October was won 5-2 by today's visitors. 

Pre match formalities at Haywood Way

Aylesbury manage to get a good early cross into the box that the Moneyfields keeper does well to claim. Then the visitors are played in on goal but the forward fails to properly connect with his shot that is comfortably saved by the goalie. Moneyfields are now building up a head of steam and the Aylesbury keepers does fantastically well to tip a header from a free kick onto the bar. Then comes the big talking point of the half. The Moneyfields forward gets beyond the Aylesbury defence and is pulled down. The referee points to the spot but the linesman informs him that the foul was outside the box - I was at the other end of the ground but the free kick if well saved. Moneyfields continue to create chances but the Aylesbury defence are putting their bodies on the line. Their resistance is broken just before half with a close range finish.

Moneyfields putting Aylesbury under pressure

The second half proves to be a bit of anti climax. A Moneyfields free kick to the back post causes panic but Aylesbury are able to clear the danger. There is a bit of handbags mid way through the half before Moneyfields seal the three points in the closing stages.

Moneyfields looking for the second goal

It's very easy to get to Aylesbury from London, one train from Marylebone that takes just under an hour. Then you can catch the number 5 bus from just up the road from the station to within a short walk from the ground. In the town itself The Kings Head offers a wide choice of beers from the local Chiltern Brewery. Then a short walk from the centre is the excellent Hope Pole Inn, home of The Vale brewery and offers a wide selection of ales. The number 5 bus conveniently departs from just down the road. If you want to head straight to close to the ground then The Cotton Wheel has the sports channels. The clubhouse at the ground also offers this as well as the usual selection of drinks - the hotdogs are also fantastic. This was my first experience of a print at home programme. While only slightly annoying, I can see why they've gone down this route, although I must admit I found it strangely satisfying putting together my own programme. It also helps that it is an brilliant production.

Another view of the stand