Old Whitgiftian AFC

The match kicked off in almost perfect playing conditions, however it was far from a perfect start for Whits as they found themselves 2 goals down within the first 10 minutes of the match. Clapham had started strongly and with a pacey frontline were causing the Whits defence a bit of trouble, the first goal coming from some good build up play, culminating in a great finish which left Quartey with no chance. Before Whits could re-group, the deficit had doubled, the pace of the front players this time causing Clarke to mis-time a challenge in the box, the resulting penalty duly converted.

The home side now had a mountain to climb however responded well to the challenge. McNamara and Ward were starting to dominating the midfield and combining well with Hawkins and Bell on the flanks. It wasn’t long before Whits found a much-needed goal, Bell releasing Cobbett down the left wing, the strikers’ pace taking him past two defenders and finish finding the back of the net from an acute angle. Both sides continued to push on looking for goals, chances came and went as the half time whistle blew with Clapham 2-1 up.

The second period began with all to play for. Evans, making his first team debut, had picked up an injury and was replaced by Patrick for the start of the second half. Whits started strongly, confident that they could get the two goals that would see them pick up a vital 3 points. The back line had re-organised and looked composed and astute in defence, repelling most of the visiting attacks, anything that did get through was ably snuffed out by Quartey. Second half sub Patrick unfortunately fell awkwardly and had to be replaced by Fucilla, with Bell pushing back to left back. Going forward Whits were making life difficult for the Clapham defence and it wasn't long before the equaliser came. Continued pressure forced Clapham into conceding a corner, Ward's delivery of which to the back post was perfect for McNamara to nod in. The home side could sense victory and pushed for the winner. Cobbett fired wide when a square ball to the better-placed Lakhani would have been the better option. A Lakhani free kick was deflected just over. Corner after corner rained in from Ward. Whits were camped in the Clapham half but could not find a way through. As the clock neared the full ninety and it seemed like the contest would end in a stalemate they got their deserved winner, McNamara's determination saw him win a 50:50 challenge 20 yards out, the ball falling perfectly for a fine half-volley that rifled into the bottom right hand corner of the net.