So close that it hurts....

Despite being settled near the top of the table, we match up well against Woking 5s. First time around, it finished in a cracking goalless draw. Woking's strength this season has been their defence, conceding just 10 goals in 11 matches, and five of those had been against leaders Sanderstead, so getting past the keeper was always going to be a battle.

Last week's post-match review could be politely described as stern words and in a complete shock, like any parent lecturing their kids, it appeared to work! Players started talking to each other, distributing the ball wide, hard running off the ball, spreading out going forward and contracting inwards in defence. Promising signs...

Can't recite much of the match detail in my old age, but suffice to say, there were plenty of impressive moments all over the pitch. A stand-out match from Ryden at left-mid, Adam having his best game in goal with plenty of calling and quick reactions. The seasonal reappearance of Jon Goldie gave the forward line some structure and harassed the defenders continually. Two goals from new recruit Jon W, constantly slicing the opposing defence apart. Solid defensive structure with Dhiren & Scott. And numerous other contributions!

1-0 lead.
1-1.
2-1 lead.
2-2 after a pass was made to the umpire, looking conspicuously like one of our players standing at left back, not the ideal place for a soft turnover.

Then heartbreakingly, conceding the winner with just 20 seconds left. Final score 2-3.

Chin up guys, more 70 minute efforts like that and we will win a match soon. The season is over in terms of staying in this division, but let's stay focused and claim a couple of wins before the end of the season!