LONGHOPE Reserves produced a performance full of attacking intent, quality football and determination, despite ultimately falling to a 4–2 defeat, writes Robbie Clark.

Longhope took the early initiative in the North Gloucestershire Division Three game, putting visitors Sling under pressure with some excellent attacking play.

In the middle, Tom O’Hara was a standout performer, showed skill and composure on the ball while creating chances.

He was well supported by the strong tackling of Rich Watkins and the creativity of Alex Hardman.

The pressure finally told around the half-hour mark when a low driven corner delivered by Robbie Clark was met by Jack O’Hara, who produced a superb finish, drilling the ball into the top corner.

Longhope doubled their advantage just five minutes later.

Another corner from Clark on the same side caused problems in the Sling defence, and Ollie Austin rose well to nod home and make it 2–0 at the break.

Sling came out with renewed energy and immediately put Longhope under pressure.

Longhope lost Watkins, O’Hara and Ryan Dean to injuries early on in the second half.

The visitors pulled a goal back to make it 2–1 before finding an equaliser.

The momentum had shifted and despite Longhope's efforts to regain control, Sling continued to push forward.

There were plenty of positives for manager Ryan Davies.

The decisive moment came when a deflected effort found its way into the net, putting Sling 3–2 ahead.

A late fourth goal from the visitors sealed the result at 4–2.

The first-half performance was arguably the best the seconds have produced all season, with excellent movement, creativity and attacking football.

Keeper Jesse Dean was Man-of-the-Match for his second half performance which kept Longhope in the game.

He made two or three top-class saves including superb diving stops.