It is always a difficult place to go and get something. As it’s Mitcham it’s the shortest journey that we have so it’s that always difficult and unpredictable local derby that is always fiercely contested. We had much the better of the game but the 3pts were never secure till the last 5 minutes. After only 10 mins andafter a few missed chances Chris Rayner won possession and rifled the ball home to put us 1-0 ahead. OWCs were a good side and dangerous on the break. Despite dominating we were not able to increase the lead till 20 mins into the second half when Pearcey finished really well from a wide position. Then we had a bit of a defensive gentlemen’s excuse me when we all marked the same person and their man slotted home to make it a nervy 2-1. Of course we then had the mandatory OWCs punch up and one of their lads (Essex’s bosom buddy – no surprise) was sent off for punching Ben, after fouling him rather badly. We continued to make and miss chances and their keeper (John Harmsworth ex Merton) made some good saves before Chris Rayner volleyed home unstoppably to wrap up the 3pts. A pretty good all round team performance and a welcome 3pts ahead of the 2s trip to Chiswick next week in the cup to face Polytechnic. That leaves the 2s heading into the new year nicely placed above mid table but with games in hand.

Report by:Harry Hood

Posted in Match Reports 2s