Published: 25/11/2009 00:00 - Updated: 27/11/2009 10:58

On-fire Eagles hit Stockton for six

AN OUTSTANDING performance by Eagles blew away Stockton in the Birmingham County Vase.

A 120-mile round trip to south Warwickshire was made worthwhile by a dazzling display which eased Staffordshire County League Premier Division pacesetters Stretton to their 16th successive victory of the campaign.

Playing against a strong wind, Stretton demonstrated their defensive solidity during the opening period, hitting Stockton strongly on the break as the pace of their forwards frightened the hosts from the off.

Stretton took the lead on 20 minutes when a Sam Wesson free-kick created confusion and Richard Lonsdale adjusted sharply to score with a left-foot volley.

Stockton were then handed a chance to equalise thanks to a controversial penalty award, but Eagles thought justice was done when they missed from the spot.

The visitors then scored a majestic second goal.

Ben Watson won the ball and released Lewis Campbell with an incisive pass.

Campbell took one touch to steady himself then crossed for Phil Whieldon to tap in at the far post.

A thoroughly professional opening half was then spoilt as the midfield allowed a speculative shot from 40 yards to catch the wind and sail into the net.

The half-time talk concerned shape and patience, with Stretton sure they had the potency to exploit their hosts.

The next 45 minutes were to be the best of the season for the visitors as the quality of football surpassed anything produced so far, in conditions which were not conducive to flowing football.

Stockton simply could not counter the speed of football that could have witnessed more than the four goals recorded.

Alex Britton notched the third having exchanged passes with Lonsdale to destroy the home defence with speed and a rasping drive.

The fourth arrived moments later, again for Britton, who was released following intricate play by Stuart Lynn.

The game was now flowing one way, with Stockton struggling to limit the damage.

A period of 15 minutes of intense pressure paid off when Lonsdale scored his second, with Stockton dead on their feet.

Goalkeeper Ben Gough then got in on the act as Stockton broke clear only for him to make a magnificent save.

The game then returned to type as Whieldon ran tirelessly into the corner, beat his man and curled the sixth into the top corner.

The only concern is the number of games the side will be playing this season.

This was again a fabulous display which is becoming a weekly event as confidence reaches its peak. Competition for places is fierce, adding to the players’ desire to perform.

EAGLES: Gough; Freeman, Wesson, Gaynor; Britton, Watson, Whieldon, Lynn, Campbell; Hemmings, Lonsdale; subs: Wayte, Shepherd, Upton, Easton, Carlisle.