Withdean are one of two unbeaten teams in the League and were too strong for the Blues. The opening exchanges put the Blues on the back foot, and a weak clearance under pressure was picked up by the visitors and a strong finish put the visitors ahead, from when they rarely looked like being bettered. Charlie made two good saves as the half progressed to keep us in the game and the loss of Sam with a back injury, follwed at half time by Jean Paul did little to help our cause. Challenged when 0-3 down at half time to respond the Blues picked up their game, Chris and man of the match Patrick defended with determination and were well supported by Sean and Oliver B. Pushing further forward in the second half Oliver P was through on goal twice but failed to convert chances, and when a lucky cross/strike put the visitors 4 goals up we continued to press forward, playing some of our best football in the match. Marcus combined well with Tom and Sean on the right before Nick's strong run through the centre saw him push home our first when the keeper fumbled. A second goal for Nick followed when he received a pass from Robert who tried throughout the game to hold up the ball and play in his teammates. Luke H did his best against a strong Withdean defence but with two more goals the result was confirmed, and deserved. A word for the referee, Mark Parsons, who was first rate throughout

Managers Comments

I asked for commitment in the second half and the boys delivered. We must learn to start our games as strongly and have a little more belief and conviction in our own abilities.