BIG WIN FOR CHOP SHOP

The first game on Sunday saw two title contenders battle it out with Rovers taking on Chop Shop.

Both teams knew that a win was crucial to keep up with league leaders Bellboys who are yet to drop points this season.

Rovers came into the match as favourites with a brilliant performance against Harts, whereas Chop Shop were on the end of a heavy defeat against the league leaders.

The game began with both teams not really settling on the ball, and it got a bit scrappy with points more important than trying to look good. Chop Shop were happy to sit deep and was looking to hit Rovers with their pace up front. Blake Benjamin was having a good game up front for Chop Shop, linking well with fellow striker Shane Stroud. The two would break the deadlock fifteen minutes in. A lovely pass from Blake saw Shane one on one with the advancing keeper, which Shane finished with precision. Then just four minutes later, a header from Selwyn Stroud just outside the box left the Rovers backline flat-footed, Shane Stroud was the first to react and this time rounded the keeper to double the lead.

With fifteen minutes remaining, Ricardo Squares Williams scored the goal of the weekend with a 45-yard shot that sailed over the keeper’s head to make the score three-nil to Chop Shop.

Rovers got off to a flying start in the second half with Rico Benjamin on the end of a superb past and grabbed a goal back with 20 seconds gone. Rovers threw everything at Chop Shop but found Deon Yon and his defence in fine form.

Chop Shop themselves had a few chances but were wasteful in front of goal. Chop Shop eventually hang on for a big three points to inflict a second defeat for the Rovers.

Final score Chop Shop 3 v 1 Rovers

Goals for Chop Shop - Shane Stroud 2, Ricardo Williams

Goal for Rovers - Rico Benjamin

MOM - Shane Stroud of Chop Shop

YPOM - Blake Peters-Benjamin of Chop Shop