Upon a most unseasonal evening, the players of Fleet Town and Ashford produced an entertaining match which was eventually decided in the visitors’ favour by 3 goals to 2. Mark Butler took a large squad to Fleet and the starting line up saw Russell Canderton returning to the Club, at centre-half and a start for youngster George Jennings, replacing the unwell Ricardo Joseph at left back. Three newcomers also started, namely Ike Chukwudum, Malachie Bulley and Chris Wright, although the latter had to leave the field after 20 minutes with a pull, to be replaced by Scott Harris. Ashford made a brisk start but it did not last and before long Fleet were generally dominating possession, playing down the slope with the fairly stiff breeze behind them. One or two impressive saves by Craig Ross kept them out but it was not really a surprise when they eventually went ahead on 37 minutes following an impressive move. Just before half-time, Fleet doubled their lead courtesy of a bullet header by Vinnie O’Sullivan, unfortunately straight into his own net. No changes were made at half-time but with the manager’s words doubtless ringing in their ears, one sensed a change for the better and it was Bulley who pulled one back, following a trade mark long throw from Adam Logie, well nodded on by Warren Harris to the scorer. Four changes were then made which saw Billy Jeffreys, Brett Cooper, George Baldock and Byron Harrison entering the fray and before long the scores were level, thanks to two of the subs when Harrison took full advantage of a skilful flick from Baldock before gliding the ball past the keeper. Ashford tails were up now and the winner came on 78 minutes when Paul Johnson, having come on for his long awaited come back, sent in a curling cross for Harrison to finish well once again. With the exciting skills of Ivo Ginev also now on show, it was overall an encouraging night’s work by the Ash Trees. | 
Saturday, 04 February 2012
