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Berks County v Marlow United

2pm  5 December 2015

Thames Valley Premier League, Premier Division
Berks County 1 Marlow United 2 (att 18)

The Thames Valley Premier League is a recent rebranding of what used to be the Reading League, and this was only the second game I've ever seen it ... the first was 19 years ago.

As the top division has "step seven" status, and as I've now been to all the local clubs who play at higher levels, it won't be as long before I'm back to watch more. There was enough here to suggest it's a decent level of football, even if the strong wind and a bumpy pitch didn't help the game.

Apart from fitting in nicely after the morning's game at Eton, this fixture had two main attractions. Visitors Marlow United were unbeaten and challenging for the title, and the ground had a stand to provide shelter from the elements.

The John Nike Stadium, in Bracknell, is certainly an unusual venue for this level of football. A running track surrounds the pitch, so viewing from beyond the perimeter fence means you're distant from the action, but the stand is a good focal point, and offers a decent view.

Marlow United kept up their title challenge after a win that was deserved if hard work. They took a first half lead, but Berks County equalised before the break. The visitors always looked a bit sharper, in difficult conditions, and were rewarded with their second half winner.









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