Brimscombe & Thrupp 0–3 Shortwood
UHL Hellenic League Division One
Shortwood kick-started their season with a convincing 3–0 derby win away at Brimscombe & Thrupp on Saturday, writes Jim Cunneen.
The visitors were dominant from the first whistle, producing an excellent first-half display that effectively sealed the contest before the break. Travis Cooke opened the scoring on 14 minutes, intercepting a loose effort and firing past the home keeper. Moments later, Brimscombe’s Wood pulled off a fine save to deny Cooke a second, but Shortwood didn’t have to wait long to double their advantage. On 28 minutes, Ethan Royer’s superb cross from the right was met by Alfie Bradshaw, who powered home a header.
The third came just five minutes later. Kam Muhid’s clever flick released Bradshaw, who finished calmly across the keeper into the far corner. Bradshaw almost added another before half-time, rattling the bar from distance as Shortwood threatened to run riot.
The second half was more balanced in terms of possession, but Brimscombe rarely troubled Joe Wright in the Wood goal. Shortwood could have extended their lead when Cooke and Muhid both went close, but ultimately saw the game out with control and composure.
There were standout performances throughout the side, particularly from Toby Colliver, who was commanding in defence, and Travis Cooke, whose tireless attacking display caused Brimscombe problems all afternoon. The pair shared the Man of the Match award.
Shortwood: Wright, Royer, King T, King E (Davies 85), Tryner, Colliver, Cronin (Underwood 85), Martin (Kent 55), Bradshaw, Cooke, Muhid (Gardner 73).
MOM: Toby Colliver & Travis Cooke
