Spalding storm back to claim a dramatic late win

Having suffered a 21-9 defeat in their opening match against Watford, Spalding looked to be heading for a second successive loss as they trailed Hatfield 7-5 after the third quarter.

However, Spalding got back on level terms in the final quarter before captain Ben Marsters scored the winner with just 18 seconds remaining.

Spalding had started brightly with John James putting them ahead after 20 seconds.
Tom Norfolk then doubled their advantage.

But Hatfield rallied and scored three goals in quick succession before Ed Martin brought netted to make the match all square.

The second quarter was a tough contest with both sides managing a goal apiece, Marsters scoring for Spalding to ensure a 4-4 half-time score.

A tight third quarter saw Hatfield edge ahead with three goals to Spalding’s one which was scored by Phil James.

John James then scored his second goal and Spalding’s sixth within ten seconds of the final quarter.

A second goal for Martin brought Spalding level and set up a frantic finale where Marsters grabbed a last-gasp winner.

Spalding also recently competed in the Herts Knock Out Cup at Northampton Boys School.

They finished top of their group, beating Northampton 7-2 and Watford 4-3 along the way. Unfortunately they lost 5-3 to Bedford in the semi-final.

This was good experience and practice for the team ahead of their first year in the National Water Polo League which starts on September 17 at Sheffield’s Pond Forge pool.